The Denver Nuggets and the Minnesota Timberwolves have squared off in a heavyweight fight, and Denver has found itself in a hole. These two teams have faced off in three of the last four postseasons, which has led to bad blood. After winning Game 1 convincingly, the three-seeded Nuggets now trail the series 3-1. In their three-game losing streak, their MVP, Nikola Jokic, hasn’t played up to his standards. Is it time to put the spotlight on the three-time MVP?
Had Jokic Been the Nuggets’ Biggest Problem?
The Denver Nuggets have been struggling over the past three games against the T-Wolves. For the past four seasons, Nikola Jokic has been an MVP candidate and widely considered the best player on the planet. The Joker is coming off one of his best seasons, averaging 27.7 ppg, 12.9 ppg, and 10.7 apg on an extremely high 56.9 field goal % and 38% from three.
Through the first four games, he’s averaging 25 points, 14.5 rebounds, and 7.8 assists. On face value, those are still excellent numbers. However, Jokic is shooting an abysmal 34/87 (39%) from the floor and 5/27 (18.5%) from downtown. When Joker’s been on the floor, he has a +/- of -23. That is dreadful for someone who is considered the best player in the world. Let’s bring up his 4th quarter stats.
One of the reasons the Nuggets have been excellent in clutch time in previous seasons is Jokic’s ability to take games over in the 4th quarter. During their three-game losing streak, the three-time MVP has shot 1/7, 1/3, and 0/6 in the final frame. What about the entirety of these threWite losses? A disgusting 8/20, 7/26, and 8/22. One of the Joker’s superpowers is his efficiency. As you can see, that power has faded away in these losses. Simply put, his struggles are the reason they find themselves in this hole.
Rudy Gobert has been one of the best defenders in the NBA for the better part of a decade. The four-time Defensive Player of the Year has been dominated by Jokic and the Nuggets in the past, but this series has been different. The job he is doing has been nothing short of sensational. His defense is one of the Timberwolves‘ biggest reasons they are one win away from advancing.
How Can the Nuggets Climb Back Into the Series?
Nikola Jokic. You are the best player in the world, and it’s time you play like it. There have been series in the past where you were a one-man army, only to be beaten by better teams. Then you’ve been knocked out of the postseason by players putting on the Batman suit and going nuclear in Game 7’s. This is the first series where you are one of the problems and reasons why the Nuggets are down 3-1.
Get your swagger back, and I know you are the offensive engine of your team, but find ways to be impactful on the defensive end of the floor. Jokic is averaging four turnovers per game. When he turns the ball over and tries to sprint back on defense, he runs like a pregnant lady wearing flip-flops.
There isn’t any excuse to lose any game the rest of the series. The Timberwolves are without their superstar, Anthony Edwards, and another starter, Donte DiVincenzo. Are you without Peyton Watson and probably Aaron Gordon? Yes, but no one wants to hear that. Jamal Murray is a playoff performer, and it’s time the Joker and his Harley Quinn defend home court tonight.
Who Wins Tonight?
I believe that all-time great players have the extra gear when their backs are against the wall, willing their team to an individual win. The Denver Nuggets will win tonight. I can’t see a scenario in which Jokic and Murray don’t empty the tank to send this series back to Minnesota. In his 16 elimination games, the Joker is averaging 26 points, 12 rebounds, and 7 assists while shooting 52%. The Nuggets win and keep their season alive by a thread.
Final Thoughts
With Game 5 tipping off around 10:30 PM EST, the season for the Denver Nuggets is on the line. It’s heartbreaking that there are injuries on both sides. What do you think is the biggest reason that Denver is down 3-1? Who do you think wins tonight? Lastly, can the Nuggets pull off some 3-1 comeback magic?
As always, thank you so much for checking out my thoughts on Nikola Jokic being the biggest reason the Denver Nuggets find themselves in a 3-1 series hole! Be sure to check out our other amazing content here at New Leaf News! We hope you’re enjoying your day and look forward to seeing you again soon.
