DENVER — It was a brushstroke of brilliance on a painting crafted hundreds of times before. Nikola Jokic pump-faked from the top of the key, coaxing Milwaukee Bucks forward Kyle Kuzma’s right foot a step too high. Two dribbles came to get past Kuzma, and a left-to-right spin to shed him, setting up the threat of a hook.

Nikola Jokic had missed five games with an ankle issue but didn't miss a beat in his return. Just check out this pass. Jokic returned to the court with a 39-point triple-double to lift the Nuggets to a win over the shorthanded Bucks (no Giannis Antetokounmpo or Damian Lillard).