Jokić’s Bold Statement After Game 5 Win: “We’ll Go to LA and Take Another”

After a thrilling Game 5 victory over the LA Clippers, Nikola Jokić didn’t hold back. The Denver Nuggets’ superstar center delivered a confident and defiant postgame message that immediately captured headlines: “We’ll go to LA and take another.” With those few words, Jokić not only showcased his competitive fire but also reignited the belief that the defending champions remain the team to beat in the West.

Nikola Jokić leads the charge in Game 5

In the Nuggets’ pivotal Game 5 win, Nikola Jokić once again demonstrated why he is a two-time NBA MVP and the reigning Finals MVP. He tallied 25 points, 16 rebounds, and 9 assists, dominating in every aspect of the game. But more than the stats, it was his presence, patience, and leadership in the closing minutes that anchored Denver’s comeback.

While the Clippers tried to trap and double-team him throughout the second half, Jokić kept his composure, trusting his teammates and making precise passes out of pressure. His unselfishness allowed Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr., and Aaron Gordon to step up and deliver clutch shots.

The significance of Jokić’s postgame statement

Jokić’s declaration, “We’ll go to LA and take another,” wasn’t just a soundbite. It was a clear message to the Clippers and the rest of the league that the Nuggets are not satisfied with a narrow series lead. Confidence, not arrogance, defines Jokić’s demeanor. His quiet dominance and focused mindset are part of what makes him such a dangerous playoff opponent.

The Nuggets understand the importance of finishing the series in Game 6. A potential Game 7, even at home, would be unpredictable against a battle-tested Clippers squad. Denver wants to close out the series in Los Angeles, and Jokić’s words reflect that mission.

Denver’s supporting cast rises to the occasion

Much of the spotlight rightly falls on Jokić, but Denver’s Game 5 success was a team effort. Jamal Murray contributed 22 points and nailed a critical three-pointer late in the fourth. Aaron Gordon added 17 points and played elite defense against Kawhi Leonard, while Porter Jr. hit timely jumpers to stretch the defense.

This balance is a hallmark of the Nuggets’ system under head coach Michael Malone. Jokić is the hub, but the system depends on everyone moving, cutting, and sharing the ball. The Nuggets had 30 assists in Game 5, with seven different players scoring in double figures.

Clippers on the brink

For the LA Clippers, the loss was a demoralizing blow. Despite solid performances from Paul George and Kawhi Leonard, the team faltered in the final minutes. Turnovers, stagnant offense, and failure to contain Jokić in the post proved costly.

The Clippers now face elimination on their home court. They must find a way to disrupt Denver’s rhythm and limit Jokić’s impact. But that’s easier said than done. Few players in the NBA can control a game like Nikola Jokić, and his Game 5 performance was another reminder of his unique skill set.

What makes Jokić so hard to stop?

Nikola Jokić is unlike any other big man in basketball. At 7 feet tall, he has the vision of a point guard, the touch of a shooter, and the footwork of a seasoned post player. His ability to read defenses and exploit mismatches is unmatched.

In the halfcourt, he functions as a point-center, orchestrating the offense with handoffs, pick-and-rolls, and precision passes. When defenses collapse, he finds the open man. When left alone, he scores with soft floaters, hook shots, and turnaround jumpers.

The Clippers have tried everything—double teams, switching, physicality—but Jokić’s adaptability and poise make him nearly impossible to scheme against for an entire game.

The mindset heading into Game 6

As the series shifts back to Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, the Denver Nuggets carry the momentum. They also carry the swagger of a team that knows how to win on the road. Last year, the Nuggets closed out multiple series away from home during their championship run.

Nikola Jokić’s leadership is crucial to that confidence. He sets the tone with his calm demeanor and competitiveness. His words after Game 5 weren’t for show—they were a rallying cry for his teammates to finish the job.

The Nuggets understand the stakes. A win in Game 6 gives them rest, reduces injury risk, and prepares them for a tough series ahead against the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Jokić vs. the West: The bigger picture

If the Nuggets advance, Nikola Jokić will likely face Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, one of the most electrifying guards in the league. The contrast in styles—Jokić’s methodical dominance vs. SGA’s explosive drives and creativity—would make for a compelling matchup.

But first, the Nuggets must finish what they started. Game 6 in LA is no formality. The Clippers will fight to extend their season, and the atmosphere will be intense. Yet Denver has the tools, the chemistry, and the leadership to close it out.

Final thoughts: Confidence or pressure?

Jokić’s bold statement reflects a champion’s mindset. He isn’t looking past the Clippers, but he’s also not fearing the moment. That attitude is contagious in the Nuggets locker room.

With the team playing unselfishly and defending with purpose, Denver looks ready to make another deep postseason run. And as always, their success begins and ends with their “unreal leader” Nikola Jokić.

If his words are any indication, the Nuggets aren’t just going to LA to compete—they’re going to win.