Key Matchup: Nikola Jokic vs. Andre Drummond

This matchup, surprisingly enough, was clearly won by the rookie from the very first moments of the game until the very last seconds. Jokic was able to draw a foul on Drummond that forced his coach to take him out, and Drummond was a virtual non-factor the rest of the way. He finished with only 4 points and 8 rebounds, while Jokic had 17 points on 7/11 shooting, 5 rebounds, 3 assists 2 steals, and 3 blocks. Jokic showed a multitude of skills in this game, including fade-away shots, impressive defense during certain possessions and calmness in the clutch. His game-winning block on Jackson to secure the win for the Nuggets was huge, and at times it seemed like he couldn't miss on offense. If anybody had any doubt that he is going to be a star for this team, then that doubt was surely erased after this performance.