No costume required. Nikola Jokic’s game scares the NBA.

Denver’s star center won’t dress up for Halloween, as expected. He’ll be preparing to scаre the Timberwolves in Minneapolis on Wednesday.

Jokic has terrorized opponents in four games this season. He scored 27 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds in Monday’s win over Utah, his second triple-double in four games. He had double-doubles in the other two games, helping Denver go 4-0.

“It’s incredible,” Coach Michael Malone said after Monday’s game. “For years, I’ve challenged myself not to take Nikola for granted. His nightly greatness. I had no idea he had a triple-double.”

Monday’s finish was tight. Jokic was initially credited with a steаl in the waning seconds against the Jazz. Jokic got his 107th triple-double with a fast rebound.

That ranks fourth in NBA history with Jason Kidd and LeBron James. Kidd retired after 1,549 games, whereas James has 1,707 and counting. Jokic played 668 games.

Russell Westbrook leads with 198 triple-doubles (and counting). Oscar Robertson and Magic Johnson retired with 181 and 138 triple-doubles.

In a stunning turn, Jokic, who rarely discusses his own accomplishments, compared himself to past NBA triple-double champs.

“Maybe all-around game, especially оffensively,” Jokic said. “Maybe affect the game in every оffensive way possible. That’s flexible.”

Jokic is the only center with more than 100 triple-doubles in NBA history. Westbrook, Robertson, Johnson, and Kidd are classic point guards. James popularized the point-forward position, whereas Jokic was the first point-center.

“It shows his greatness. It shows his consistency and high-level performance every night, Malone added. Similarities between LeBron and Nikola include their IQ and ability to improve others. I think that defines greatness.”

Not only does Jokic improve his teammates. He influences others’ play. His selflessness permeates the Nuggets.

When asked about Aaron Gordon’s passing, Jokic stated, “Whoever comes here, I think they figure out we share the ball, so (they think) I’m going to share it, too.” “Then, you start thinking about how I can improve that situation.”

Malone addresses Porter’s lack of playing time

Jokic and three of the other four Nuggets starters played over 33 minutes Monday.

Not past 20 for Michael Porter Jr. Despite missing the fourth quarter, he played 18 minutes and 36 seconds. Malone substituted Christian Braun for Porter to finish the game. Malone praised Braun’s toughness and defense and regretted Porter’s fourth-quarter absence.

“Probably should’ve gotten him back in there at some point,” Malone said postgame. “Many of our players are selfless and sacrifice. Michael is one of those guys.”

Top 10 career triple-doubles

1. Russell Westbrook, 198

2. Oscar Robertson, 181

3. Magic Johnson, 138

4. Nikola Jokic/LeBron James/Jason Kidd, 107

5. Wilt Chamberlain, 78

6. James Harden, 74

7. Larry Bird, 59

8. Luka Doncic (58)

9. Fаt Lever, 43

10. Giannis Antetokounmpo, 35