Nuggets star Nikola Jokic surprises with praise for another All-Star after setting career-high

The MVP race between Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic and Oklahoma City Thunder standout Shai Gilgeous-Alexander may have taken a decisive turn after Jokić set a career-high with 61 points against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Following the game against Anthony Edwards’ team, Jokić delivered a surprising message about an All-Star player.

Despite discussing the milestone he achieved against the Timberwolves, Jokic dedicated part of his post-game press conference to praise All-Star Anthony Edwards. After the game, Edwards had expressed admiration for Jokic, and the Nuggets star responded with unexpected comments about Edwards’ level of play.

“That’s funny,” Jokić said in response to Edwards’ praise. “He just took off; that’s what superstars do,” Jokić remarked, acknowledging Edwards as one of the players helping the NBA maintain its viewership amid recent criticism about the current style of play.

Although he reflected on his own record-setting performance, Jokić took the opportunity to highlight Edwards’ impressive development. With the level of play Edwards has demonstrated this season, the Timberwolves are on the verge of clinching a playoff spot, and their win against the Nuggets was a key factor in that pursuit.

Anthony Edwards #5 of the Minnesota Timberwolves reacts following a three point basket during the first half of the game against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on March 05, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Jokic reflects on his 61-point career high

After scoring a career-high 61 points, Nikola Jokic addressed the media to reflect on the historic achievement. True to his humble nature, Jokic shared his thoughts with the poise and humility that have become his trademarks. He noted that great players are made for moments like these.

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“We’re born for this. We’ve been training since we were kids. My opinion is that horses are like athletes; they’re very similar to us. They’re born to run, and we’re born to play,“ Jokic remarked.

Edwards’ thoughts on Jokic

While Jokic reflected on his career milestone, Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards also shared his perspective on the Nuggets’ superstar. Edwards, who had a career night of his own, praised Jokic as the best player he has ever seen on the court after himself.

“Nikola Jokić, bruh. Oh my God. He might be the best basketball player I’ve ever seen up close, besides myself,” Edwards told the media following the Timberwolves’ victory over the Nuggets.