Nikola Jokic makes intentions clear on Lu Dort move after foul

Feb 28, 2026 - 22:00

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Nikola Jokic makes intentions clear on Lu Dort move after foul

The Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder served up a thriller that went to overtime, but the Thunder walked away with a 127-121 win. OKC closed the game in the extra period and used depth to finish strong. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had a big night, 36 points, three rebounds, and nine assists.

The incident began after a Jared McCain bucket. On the inbound, Lu Dort appeared to step into Jokic with an outstretched leg, a move that looked like a trip or hip check. Jokic immediately took exception. Teammates and opponents surrounded them in the court.

After review, Dort was assessed a Flagrant 2 and ejected. Officials reviewed the play before making the call. The ejection came after players from both sides pushed and were separated. Both teams were then warned and play resumed.

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The scene heated up when Jaylin Williams got involved and drew a technical. Jaylin Williams and Jokic were both given technical that offset. The skirmish did not end the drama of the night, though it became a major talking point.

After the game, Jokic was blunt.

Lu Dort was ejected after appearing to trip Nikola Jokic on this play.

Nikola Jokic and Jaylin Williams both received technical fouls. pic.twitter.com/ZFyNHpigsM— ESPN (@espn) February 28, 2026

“Unnecessary move, and a necessary reaction,” he said. “There is no such thing, I think there’s not supposed to be those things on a basketball floor. So it was just an unnecessary move and a necessary reaction by me.” He made it clear he felt targeted and that his response was justified.

Nikola Jokic on the Lu Dort flagrant foul: "Unnecessary move, and a necessary reaction. There is no such thing — I think there's not supposed to be those things on a basketball floor. So it was just an unnecessary move and a necessary reaction by me."— Bennett Durando (@BennettDurando) February 28, 2026

The game itself was tight. Jamal Murray led Denver in scoring with 39, while Jokic finished with a 23-17-14 triple-double. Chet Holmgren and the Thunder played a supporting role in securing the win. The rivalry left both teams bruised and talking after a wild finish.