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<p><strong>The Nuggets and the Thunder recently faced off in two back-to-back games that could be a preview of this season's Western Conference Finals, with both teams sitting atop their conference standings. Each team claimed one victory, demonstrating why their star players are frontrunners for the MVP award this season.</strong></p>
<p>Nikola Jokic delivered an astounding performance, recording 31 points, 21 rebounds, and a career-high 22 assists. Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed 40 points, eight rebounds, five assists, and three blocks, marking his 11th game of the season with 40 or more points.</p>
<p>Despite being in contention for the MVP honor, the <a href="https://www.basketballinsiders.org/tag/oklahoma-city-thunder/">Thunder</a> star prioritizes his team's success over personal accolades. "I love MVPs, All-Stars, and all the recognition that comes with them, but none of it matters if you don't win, and that's what I focus on," Shai stated following his team's victory.</p>
<p>On the other hand, the <a href="https://www.basketballinsiders.org/tag/denver-nuggets/">Denver</a> superstar, already a three-time MVP, believes that SGA would rightfully take the award if he himself doesn't. In a crucial moment late in the fourth quarter on Saturday, the Canadian scored seven consecutive points against the Nuggets within just 1 minute and 20 seconds.</p>
<p>"This is my third or fourth year in a row, so I can't control it," Jokic remarked after the Nuggets triumphed over the Thunder on Monday. "I will say I'm playing the best basketball of my life, so if that’s enough, great. If not, he deserves it. He's really incredible."</p>
<p>Nuggets head coach Michael Malone ran out of superlatives for his All-Star center. "Nikola Jokic is one of a kind. He's the first player to ever achieve a 30, 20, and 20 game. I can't describe him, so don't even ask," Malone said.</p>
<p>Jamal Murray also made a significant impact, scoring 34 points on 11-of-22 shooting and 3-of-7 from beyond the arc. "Jamal was aggressive. He looked very comfortable out there," Malone assessed. "He was finding his spots, stepping into his shots, and shooting with confidence."</p>
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