Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

NBA Announces Mistake in Nuggets-Blazers Game Involving Nikola Jokic

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Rolly Gacelo | Last updated Apr 7, 2026 9:57 PM ET

The Denver Nuggets extended their winning streak to nine on Monday after edging the pesky Portland Trail Blazers in overtime, 137–132. They needed Nikola Jokic to be dominant again, as the three-time MVP finished with 35 points, 14 rebounds, and 13 assists. He also made an impact on the defensive end with five steals and two blocks.

Aaron Gordon was also huge for the team, finishing with 23 points and hitting clutch shots late in the fourth quarter and early in overtime. Jamal Murray added 20 points, seven of them coming in the overtime period.

The Blazers played an almost perfect game in limiting Jokic's teammates. They even built an 18-point lead late in the third quarter. However, the Nuggets hit the gas in the fourth and started clicking.

The entire Portland starting five scored at least 18 points, led by Toumani Camara, who had 30 points, although he fouled out with under two minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. Deni Avdija had 26 points, while Jrue Holiday added 19.

Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic gestures a play in their game against the Portland Trail BlazersIsaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

Jokic was masterful throughout the night, even drawing fouls from defenders. The NBA's Last 2 Minutes Report has been released, and it admitted that there was an incorrect call in the closing moments of the game.

The two teams entered the final two minutes with the Blazers leading by three points, 121–118. It was the Nuggets’ possession, and as usual, they went to Jokic. Robert Williams was tasked with guarding him but was immediately called for a foul. Play was stopped, and Jokic was awarded two free throws, which he made.
It was an incorrect call, according to the L2M report.

“Jokic (DEN) clamps and holds Williams’ (POR) arm, which affects his ability to defend the drive. An offensive foul should have been called on Jokic,” it stated.

The Blazers could have gained possession and built a more comfortable lead. Instead, the game turned into a see-saw battle.

Avdija hit two free throws to match Jokic’s points, but Gordon knocked down a three-pointer to tie the game at 123 with 1:12 remaining. The Blazers eventually ran out of gas with Camara stuck on the bench. Their franchise record 25 three points made went into waste.

The loss drops the Blazers to No. 9 in the Western Conference standings, while the Nuggets climbed to No. 3, overtaking the Los Angeles Lakers.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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