The Golden State Warriors squeezed out a 137-131 overtime win over the Denver Nuggets on Thursday night.
It wasn’t an easy victory, but it was an important one with some star performances from their biggest players.
Newcomer Al Horford had a night to remember, especially because he limited one of the greatest players in the league.
Nikola Jokic produced 21 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists, but his life was very difficult when Horford was guarding him.
“Nikola Jokić shot 3-for-12 from the field when defended by Al Horford — including 1-for-7 in the 4th quarter and overtime,” per ESPN NBA.
Nikola Jokić shot 3-for-12 from the field when defended by Al Horford — including 1-for-7 in the 4th quarter and overtime, per @ESPNNBA pic.twitter.com/Fw9aKbLUSn
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) October 24, 2025
Minimizing the output of Jokic is a huge deal, especially for a Western Conference rival like the Warriors.
There is a chance these two teams meet up in the playoffs months from now, so if Golden State has a way to shut Jokic down, they could be in good shape.
Horford was brought to the Warriors because he has years of great experience in intense, high-stakes situations.
He has also shown, repeatedly, that he isn’t afraid of the best players in the association.
They don’t get much better than Jokic, who has numerous methods of helping his team score.
They have high expectations and big goals, so every win is going to count for the Warriors this year.
The Nuggets are seen as one of the toughest teams in the West and true championship contenders, particularly because they improved their roster in the summer.
Golden State’s early-season win over them is a badge of honor, and it proves that they can compete with the best of the best.
Horford’s performance made that victory possible, and it also reminded everyone what a terrific big man he is.
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