Nikola Jokic chasing NBA history in Nuggets season opener

The NBA season gets underway for the Denver Nuggets on Thursday, with superstar center Nikola Jokic looking to make history in the team's opening-night matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Jokic enters the 2026-27 campaign tied with basketball legend Oscar Robertson for the most triple-doubles recorded by a player in a season opener, with both stars achieving the feat four times. Another triple-double against the Thunder would give Jokic sole possession of the NBA record.

The three-time NBA Most Valuable Player has established himself as one of the league's most versatile players, consistently contributing as a scorer, rebounder and playmaker. Now, he has an opportunity to add another milestone to his already impressive career.

Jokic looks to extend season-opening record

Jokic recorded his fourth season-opening triple-double last year, finishing with 21 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists against the Golden State Warriors.

Despite his outstanding individual performance, Denver fell 137-131 in overtime, leaving the Nuggets eager to begin the new season with a better result.

The Serbian center continued to deliver elite production throughout the 2025-26 campaign, averaging 27.7 points, 12.9 rebounds and 10.7 assists per game. His all-around performances helped guide Denver into the playoffs, although the Nuggets ultimately suffered a first-round elimination at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves.

With another season ahead, Jokic will once again be central to Denver's hopes of competing for a championship. His ability to influence games in multiple ways makes him one of the NBA's most difficult players to defend.

Denver's season opener presents a challenging matchup against Oklahoma City, as the Nuggets begin their 2026-27 regular season on the road.

Jokic and the Nuggets know what it takes to reach the top of the league, having captured the NBA championship in 2023. Jokic was named Finals MVP following that title-winning run, further cementing his status among the game's elite.

The Nuggets will hope to build on their previous success and make another deep postseason run this year.

However, Thursday's contest offers Jokic an immediate individual milestone to pursue. If he records another triple-double, he will move ahead of Robertson and become the NBA's outright leader for season-opening triple-doubles.

With history within reach, all eyes will be on Jokic as Denver opens its campaign against Oklahoma City.