For most of the Nikola Jokić era, the Nuggets' path to success hinged on the three-time MVP putting up near-historic numbers on a nightly basis. He averages near a triple-double most seasons, not only because he's absurdly talented,

In addition to his game-saving defensive plays in the series’ first two contests, Bridges has made up for offensive struggles with averages of 5.3 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 2.7 steals while playing a whopping 44.0 minutes per game.

Nikola Jokić lived up to his nickname on Friday, arriving at the Ball Arena wearing a Joker-inspired purple and green suit before helping the Denver Nuggets to a dramatic, overtime 113-104 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3 of their playoff series.

DENVER — After a tough Game 2 in Oklahoma City, Nikola Jokić opted for a costume change ahead of Game 3. With his Denver Nuggets back home and a chance to take a 2-1 series lead in the Western Conference semifinals, the Joker dressed up pregame Friday night as, well, the Joker. Seriously.

Jokić's decision to wear a purple suit, green vest, and a chain reminiscent of the Joker was a bold move. It marked a departure from his usual low-key pregame looks and immediately caught the attention of fans and the media.

Jokić's failsafe, Aaron Gordon, the hero of Game 1, is tired of seeing this defensive strategy get rewarded during this postseason (and otherwise) while his superstar teammate gradually grows incensed at all the non-calls:

Gordon wasn't wrong about officials catching Jokić in the act. The Nuggets' big man fouled out of the contest in the third quarter, essentially ending any hope of a Denver comeback. Jokić finished the game with 17 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists.

The conference semifinals series between the Denver Nuggets and the Oklahoma City Thunder features intense matchups. After the Thunder’s victory in Game 4, the series is now tied at 2-2. Meanwhile, some surprising insights about Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander have emerged.