Jokic and the Nuggets got SQUASHED by Timberwolves in game 2

[@stephanos3029]

Jamal is now will barton. We need a new Jamal. Asking Jokic to put up 40/20/10 every night for us to win is insane. I think Jokic is playing fine, he just can’t compensate for how poorly Jamal has degraded

[@Dusica-sl7ie]

Bravo

[@tylerpeters2820]

I could not be more disappointed in Jamal Murray. Guy experiences for 2 games what Jokic experiences every night and his mental is shattered.

[@josdomam]

While Jokic can't even score 20 against Kat. Jokic getting outplayed by Reed, a neck player! So I don't want to hear that crap.

[@hlias_raskolnikov]

​@josdomam ayo what is Jokic supposed to do ?? bro has zero help its 1v5 out there smh

[@RS-ol8or]

@@hlias_raskolnikovplus no help off the bench thanks to Booth & Malone.

[@kgar5String]

@@hlias_raskolnikov He is supposed to be the MVP.

[@fawazjarbo6448]

I swear I been saying this. He is not him. He’s too cocky and selfish and look what happened. I’m so pissed rn. Timberwolves should be getting exposed not us. We got great players besides Murray

[@chrisberg3648]

Wolves fan here just lurking. Really impressed by this show's approach. Could have easily gone after the refs or made excuses but instead you gave props to the Wolves and criticized the Nuggets. Minnesota fans are no strangers to playoff disappointment in every sport so we are as guilty as anyone of making excuses or blaming refs. Bravo to you guys.

[@RS-ol8or]

Your team is amazing; hope you guys kick the crap out of the those OKC frauds & then the Cs in the playoffs. I like your chances against anybody.

[@Dusica-sl7ie]

Blaming Jokic us you people are nuts!!!!!! With no teammates, no bench...what the hell you think hw can do? With average/bad Jammal?

[@rado22]

Jokic needs to be 35/15/10 on 60% every night to give this team a chance in the playoffs, as he was in the first series. That's GOAT level basketball. Nobody in history has done that literally. Let that sink in. I would give up too at some point. Jamal did not put one single good game in this playoffs. Ant is a beast but he has massive help in every game. It's a team game.

[@insider2546]

Yes...and on cocane like half of Nuggets caffe.?

[@Ali-fo4uv]

Jokic has sucked too

[@morgan2552t]

And he needs to protect the rim

[@kingrobinho777]

No defense, Ant snatched his chain

[@Gnofg]

I have said this that Denver played the weakest competition of any champ I can remember. They beat barely .500 teams. The first time they faced real compeition they folded like a cheap suit. THEY GAVE UP.

[@slimboogs]

After you win a championship you must improve! The nuggets regressed as far as the bench goes, I blame the GM.

[@Hexonxonx1]

Murray’s All-Star status conversation is disappearing in these playoffs

[@je5406]

Facts. Smh. He's a high ceiling , low floor player. Worst part is he doesnt take care of his body

[@Munnnn8]

He never was all star calibre

[@pappont]

Jamal's attitude is the ticking bomb on the Nuggets. Nuggets have everything to win multiple champs, but there is one huge risk - Jamal's attitude and his health as a consequence of his attitude. As I heard, Jamal was not in shape in the beginning of the season, he had extra weight. If that's true, it's totally unacceptable. Muscle injuries often happen when athlete doesn't take enough care of his body. He must exercise every day, do long stretching and other exercises. Wembanyama does all that, he is very flexible. That helps prevent injuries. And that gives hope, that Wemby won't have a lot of injuries. Does Jamal do all the required stretching and other stuff, if he arrives out of shape and with extra weight? I really, really, really doubt. That's the attitude. And then he has calf string, hamstring and other stuff. I wanted to write all the above before game 5 vs Lakers. Jamal was hurt and I felt like we could easily lose that game and that series with him being absent. If what I wrote above makes sense, then these two losses are very fair. You can't expect success with this kind of attitude. And what's worse, it's a factor for all the upcoming years. Either Jamal changes or Nuggets' future may be not that bright. P.S. That's it, Adam said it - he always works himself into shape. This should be understood as 'plays himself into shape'. That's the shittiest attitude ever and that's what I hate. With such attitude Murray will always be injured. And besides he vastly underachieves. What does he do in all the free time, if he appears out of shape? Professional athlete must take care of his body every single freakin day. And that's the case with many NBA players who return from summer in good shape. While Jamal is still young his body has extra resources and will forgive this lack of professionalism, but every year it will be getting worse. Remember, what MPJ said? Jokic is the one works most in the gym besides MPJ himself. He didn't say Murray, he said Jokic. That's why I'm confident in Jokic and MPJ and I have very low confidence in Murray. I'll repeat myself - all these thoughts I had before game 5 vs Lakers

[@kgar5String]

These two loses had nothing to do with being in shape or motivation, the other team is younger faster and naturally more aggressive. The playoffs are different then the regular season because during the regular season you play every other night and you cannot focus on one team, in the playoff you can game plan better.

[@sighpause03]

i remember murray being ripped in the bubble.

[@innerparty1]

You guys are crazy putting this on Jokic. He literally had to play on GOAT level three years in a row to give Nuggets a chance. Without him they are deep, deep lottery. That level is not sustainable for anyone.

[@yungso5940]

It’s on everyone but Jokic and Jamal take it because they are the leaders

[@RS-ol8or]

Agreed, that’s a casual take from guys who should know better. Jok is everything to this franchise. Murray OTOH is always injured & fragile mentally. Jok doesn’t even have a proper backup to help him out with minutes off the bench.

[@kgar5String]

@@RS-ol8or You was not saying that last year

[@curcicm]

Murray is this year's Will Barton. Only a matter of time before he's traded.

[@astriddececco3005]

​@@kgar5StringIt has been said, for years that Nuggets need a backup and bench.

[@LANMEE2]

You can only blame Jokic for being a good team player, and trusting the brand of basketball that brought denver everything they have. Jamal is just unplayable this series. He was awful vs lakers as well. I am so done believing in him, I actually never even believed in him. This is a sweep my boys. At least Jokic will play at the Olympics after the early exit.

[@Gnofg]

have said this that Denver played the weakest competition of any champ I can remember. They beat barely .500 teams. The first time they faced real compeition they folded like a cheap suit. THEY GAVE UP.

[@MikeMike-qb6oy]

​@@GnofgNo need to say last year wasn't real, grow up

[@Gnofg]

@@MikeMike-qb6oy how did last night go. The first time they faced real competition they folded and GAVE UP.

[@gorantamburic2000]

@@Gnofg They are not hungry like last year and Jamal was bad this whole playoffs plus Minnesota got some crazy banch while Nuggets got none !

[@hueyhoopin]

@@gorantamburic2000what does Murray have to do with jokics effort ? His body language the entire game was lazy

[@miloshMorar]

I only blame Jokic for allowing Murray to go 3-18 without smacking his ass. He needs to be more aggressive but what can you do when your second best player is actually the worst player on the floor. What do you expect to happen ? I don't care if you are hurt, when you step on the court you are judged by your performance. He's messing with everyone's game, at this point let him sit. They are playing without energy, effort, constantly complaining, just remember last years WCF. Refs tried so hard to give the Lakers that game but we fought, we were so hungry, never complained and kicked their ass. Where is that energy? Maybe Bruce was really that important.

[@sgsheff]

You're 100% correct. Murray's not feeling right and since he runs the offense it has brought down the entire team offense. Something else needs to happen. I feel like the Nuggets had some offense in the 3rd when Murray didn't do as much and it was more of a team offense. The one on one offense that Murray tries to do and maybe he'll include Jokic in a pick and roll but that's it. They have ran a full offensive set on most possessions all season but barely any in the playoffs. They need full team involvement.

[@pedjazoo]

Isn't that Malone's call to make? What is Malone even doing??

[@sgsheff]

@@pedjazoo Absolutely. Well, a coach can make all of the adjustments etc but it requires the players to do it. I think it's a really good thing that they don't play until Friday.

[@sharp2.080]

bruce's energy and defense gave us hope and life last year

[@pedjazoo]

@@sharp2.080 Ah how we miss Bruce :( Booth never got us an adequate replacement for him.

[@Munnnn8]

When is Denver gunna get Jokić a real allstar team mate

[@Peca-sz6yt]

Never

[@hmp01]

did you really cheer for Edwards MVP? shame on you nuggets fans, that was lame of you, Nikola gets you your first title and you act like children

[@sguerilla6142]

What hurts the most is that Adam was in Serbia and that he celebrated Jokic as a god. While Jokic played well and earned his salary every night and everyone else's salary, he was good. When he played 2 bad games, now it's not that he's not good, but he's also to blame for everything bad that's happening... They deserve Jokic to pack his things, come home, and let Denver manage as best he can. I was so stupid to believe that these are the real fans.

[@dacaspasojevic7542]

​@@sguerilla6142Bravo !

[@hmp01]

@@sguerilla6142 we are so used to Jokic getting this incredible stat line doing everything every night, if he has one off night you really get the perspective of how reliable he actually is for every game. The point of my comment is you don't turn your back to MVP after a bad game, even a couple, imagine if Jokic was in a slump, and the fans should be there to cheer him up and help him out, not sell out after a couple of bad games

[@curcicm]

Adam is a front office puppet. We all know rhe reason nuggets suck and its not Jokic.

[@aljazeri]

That was Wolves fans, denver fans had left by that point

[@fawazjarbo6448]

These guys are idoits this game absolutely did not hurt his legacy. He is the goat nobody can play like him

[@dacaspasojevic7542]

Oh really guys... When Jokić plays perfectly all season you hardly even mention him, but if he doesn't carry all of Denver on his back for a few games, then he alone bears all the responsibility...You are patetic, you really didn't deserve him...I would like him leaves Denver so you can be at the bottom again like you were without him !!!

[@Skudermasker89]

Tim Connelly won us that championship, not Calvin Booth. Tim built the culture, hired Michael Melone, and drafted Jokic, Jamal, and Porter. He made Gordon trade. KCP trade deal was while he was still in the front office. What did Calvin do? Singed Bruce by luck, Drafted Braun and Watson, made a horrible trade for Thomas Bryant at the trade deadline, and signed Reggie Jackson from the buyout market, which both were not factors in winning a championship. Then the next year he drafted Strawther, Hunter, and Pickett. Resigned Reggie for 2 years mid-level exception instead of finding a proper point guard. He also extended Zeke which was useless (Except if we can trade him). We lost Bruce and Jeff and signed Justin Holliday. So instead of bolstering the bench with good experienced players, he drafts a bunch of rookies who were not even on the mock draft. Braun will take 2 more years to reach his potential which is a good defender, hustle player, and average offensive player. Payton will take 3 years to reach his potential. To be a great defender and average offensive player. Strawther has the potential to be a good offensive and hustle player, and an average defender, but It will take him 3+ years to get to that point (I am talking about their bench potential, none of them will be starter-level players). Pickett seems to be a bust since Collin got more play time than him, and everybody forgot that Hunter even exists. Calvin is building a bench that will take 3+ years to mature and is not guaranteed that these young players will be good enough. Calvin is playing around creating "Project Dynasty" out of 2nd round picks with a team that has a tight championship window, while Tim Connelly created a championship contender in 2 years with Minnesota that kicked our ass. This Failure is Mostly on Calvin Booth and ownership. They have one offseason to redeem themselves. We need a good backup point guard and a solid PF/C that can give Jokic (Sometimes Gordon) some rest time without blowing leads when he is off the court and can play 5-8 min in the playoffs. And that is the minimum. We have Zeke, Reggie, Pickett, Hunter, and some draft picks (Braun, Watson, and Strawther if necessary). Justin is probably gone next year which opens up the roster spot, DJ served his purpose, and hopefully, Vlatko is gone too (I know that everyone loves Vlatko and I think he is a great guy too, but just like Zeke, sometimes he plays well, but most times he is injured and can't play during playoffs, and who knows how he will look after injury. If need be, we will have to go to that scary second apron. So we have some young players and a veteran player with few picks and open roster spots. We don't have a lot of assets but this will show if Calvin is a good GM and if Kroenkes are willing to spend. Also, we are championship contenders, and there have to be players who are willing to sing for less to win a championship. This myth that nobody wants to play in Denver is bll***t. Milwaukee is not a big or glamorous market, yet they still get good bench role players. So I don't want to hear this excuse again. I also don't buy this second apron bll***t. I think that Kroenkes are just too cheap and dont want to pay the luxury tax. Most penalties are related to trade, but Calvin doesn't even want to do trades, so who cares, spend some money if you want to win championships. The biggest problem is going to be Jamal Murry and his health. I know that he was a huge reason we won the championship, but we also were noncompetitive for 2 years because of his knee injury. Now again we will lose the playoff series because of his injury and poor play. If next year Murry is playing on this level, especially in the postseason, I think it would be best for the Nuggets to trade him. If he doesn't play like last season or close to it, we don't have any chance of winning another championship. Jokic has to play better as well, but the guy is carrying us through the whole regular season because Jamal is injured and we have a bench with a bunch of rookies most of which are in G league, and washed veterans. Don't forget that the West is getting more loaded each year. Next year, OKC will be championship contenders(if not already), Dallas might get better, Minnesota will be even better, Spurs and Rockets will be better, and the Grizzlies will be back. And that is for sure to happen, God knows what big trades will happen next year, that will make West a nightmare conference. I am already predicting how Melone and Calvin will blame injuries and exhaustion, and how we don't have to change anything, and all we have to do is get healthy and play harder. I understand that winning back-to-back is hard, but this is not even about that. This is about us being non-competitive. If we lost in a 6-7 hard-fought series, then I would buy that excuse but to get beat down and embarrassed in the second round by Minnesota which is a good team, but not some Durant Warriors-level team. I am sorry for being too negative, but I just don't see the way out of this whole without big changes which Nuggets are not willing to do. Hopefully, we get swept and embarrassed so hard that the front office has to wake up, which might also need change as well.

[@Munnnn8]

Tim connelly is responsible for some of this mess he was the 1 who gave MPJ & Jamal AllStar player contacts in 33 mil each when in reality there 23 mil players yes I would rather him back over booth ofcourse but we really don’t have much cap space & that is because of big contracts for players like MPJ & Jamal & that’s due 2 connelly

[@Munnnn8]

100% I get ur point front office is a mess it’s ridiculous how they think we could win with 2 kids who just came out pre school and a washed up vet, & a man made out of paper 😂 myby this franchise just isn’t serious about winning a championship after getting there 1st, ofcourse I hope that’s not the case I would hate 2 see a player with a generational talent like jokic go 2 waste but the front office n GM had 2 know that this team wasn’t enough

[@Munnnn8]

If it wasn’t for players like Jamal & MPJ being overpaid by at least 10 mil each we would have more space 2 get a deeper bench & that’s due 2 Connelly for overpaying, young not fully proven players & injury prone players

[@TraceyShelby]

The series just started and you guys acting like it's over😂

[@curcicm]

Great post and agree 100%. Organization won't do anything unless this is an embarrassing loss, so I hope it is. Keep in mind, these are the same people who signed Reggie and played Will Barton for years. Speaking of Barton, Murray is currently at his level.

[@johnbarkley925]

HOW TO FIX THE NUGGETS (what the team needs ) 1) backup point guard that can run the offense, shoot and defend respectably. 2) a backup centre that can rebound, rim protect and switch. Ideally a legit 7 footer. 3) a functional bench that can limit the wear and tear of the starters during the regular season and contribute positively in the playoffs. 4) more iso scoring options. Having only Jokic and Murray as capable scorers that can create their own shot ( Mpj is an off ball threat) is too predictable in the playoffs. A three level scorer more that can average 18 ppg unassisted by himself would be needed. 5) I would consider trading Murray for Fox or Scottie Barnes Availability is the most important skill in basketball. Murray being hurt 3/4 years of Jokic's prime is the reason why we won only once. 6) more three point shooting. Porter and Murray are the only two great 3 point shooters we have. We need to develop the young players to become better shooters from 3. Minnesota, OKC and many other team's are loaded with 3 point shooters. We cannot afford to lag behind.

[@benr2466]

What are your thoughts on trading Murray for some bench pieces and picking up Donovan Mitchell in free agency?

[@Munnnn8]

@@benr2466I would luv donavon Mitchell but I don’t think we would get him

[@johnbarkley925]

@@Munnnn8 Mitchell might not be perfect but he is better than nothing. The most important thing to have in today's talented NBA is shot creation. Mitchell wiuld help us tremendously and paired with Jokic he will be even better. I would trade Murray to the heat for great role players such as Jaquez, Jovic and some round picks.

[@Munnnn8]

@@johnbarkley925 nah what do mean about Mitchell might not be perfect 😂 Mitchel would be more than perfect I would luv & would b over the moon 2 have donavon Mitchell over Murray any day 😂 & KCP can shoot the ball well he actually been the most efficient 3pt shooter on the nuggets for the 2 years he’s been here this team just doesn’t run plays for him or get him involved in the offence so that not true about only having 2 good shooters this teams offence has just been awful & we can’t generate good shots & it seems coach malone is happy just having KCP just waiting in the corner cus there never any change we don’t run any plays 2 get him shots and involved in the offence

[@Munnnn8]

@@johnbarkley925 it’s hard 2 move Murray tho cuz I feel his trade value is just getting lower&lower each year especially with his injury prone history & current injuries his trade value is probably at like only 23mil we are just overpaying him

[@markolucic3255]

Jokic was averaging 33.3 points on 4 games against Minnesota in the regular season.Gobert and Reed were playing on 3 out of 4 games. He was able to deal with Gobert this season,last season and the season in the bubble without a problem. However, Nikola doesn't look like himself from the second or third game against the Lakers.Where he looks passive or like he is playing with 60% force.I don't know if it is fatigue,lack of confidence,some mental problem. Too bad.Denver need some fresh blood in my opinion.Bench is really bad this season.

[@kgar5String]

The playoffs are different, they only focus on your team, in the regular season they play every other night and cannot focus on one team.

[@rado22]

Ant is a star that is surrounded by DPOY, an All NBA defender, sixth man of the year and another AllStar. Who is Jokic surrounded with? A guy who went to AllStar for a dunk contest.

[@spinbackwards]

True this

[@UraStr]

DPOY was not playing...

[@morgan2552t]

But knowing that, I bet you picked denver in 5, didn't you?

[@noahwelch2931]

Gobert didn’t play, Jaden literally had 0 the other night, Conley is the smallest guy on the court, and KAT is notorious for his playoff meltdowns ^^^ I can play this game too, don’t try and pin Jokic as this victim. Cmon dude 😂

[@edgardoMurnia]

Murray is injured bro... Ain't that deep. And Gordon should be all nba defense cause he guards two positions at once

[@zachphillips7997]

Jamal Murray needs to be suspended for game 3. The whinning and crying. Most egregiously, throwing an object onto the floor from the bench. If walking on the floor from the bench is a suspension, throwing an object from the bench should be as well.

[@xystericalnh3182]

this playoff/season disaster is only the managements blame not the coaches, not the players, just the management for not realizing the gaps and reacting to them they thought leaning on jokic is enough to win the championship

[@tbewin1z143]

no, it's simply because unlike last year, the team is playing a top 3 seed

[@Wladislav]

@@tbewin1z143 You can't possibly be that much of an idiot.

[@Adun_Toridas]

Really Adam???You'll blame this loss on Jokic???? Lack of effort???? c'mon man!!!

[@jokicMVP3]

look at my name, Jokic was very low effort last night. He is the leader of this team so yes its on him

[@anthonycastillo8055]

@@jokicMVP3I freaking love Nikola Jokic. I 100% agree with what you’re saying

[@Gnofg]

have said this that Denver played the weakest competition of any champ I can remember. They beat barely .500 teams. The first time they faced real compeition they folded like a cheap suit. THEY GAVE UP.

[@bobbymladenovic1152]

He’s not even trying on defense and just doesn’t look like himself. I wish he had the mamba mentality

[@Gnofg]

@@bobbymladenovic1152 To me he doesn’t love playing basketball. He only likes it when he us bullying people.

[@sguerilla6142]

Adam, friend, don't come to Serbia anymore. Celebrate Edwards, he is your MVP, enjoy the king, everything is ok...

[@serge6885]

Instead of staying humble like their best player who is the best player in the world (Jokic), this team got arrogant like their coach Michael Malone. The consequence is there.

[@serge6885]

@@christophboon1406 Jokic is humble. The other players and the coach, no.

[@griffinconant9213]

The comment about this game hurting Jokic’ legacy hurt my heart😔

[@RS-ol8or]

Don’t let it bother you, it was a dumb take.

[@kgar5String]

@@RS-ol8or Is it true?

[@fawazjarbo6448]

This game or series won’t hurt shit. Because all u need to do is look at Murray numbers and you’ll know why they lost

[@RS-ol8or]

@@kgar5String nope. Not if one is paying attention.

[@nuggets_gold_rush6259]

Very hasty take. They win next year or the year after and noone is talking about this shit hurting his legacy.

[@nikolakrstic8079]

The Nuggets can't turn it on. They are tired, injured and are playing like they are scared. Murray is to weak to hang with any of these guys. The refs are not calling any fouls so that allows Minnesota to play even more insane defense. It's over

[@kgar5String]

It is not the refs, this is basketball.

[@nikolakrstic8079]

@@kgar5String nobody said it's the refs. it's a fact that NBA cracked down on the refs calling everything a foul after the all star break and the physicality they let now helps Minnesota even more. I don't have a problem with it but it is what's happening

[@johnnykeane9633]

Alot of sore laker fans in the comments, you lost. Get over it

[@JB-jg8rr]

And you’re clearly not over y’all’s loss cause you’re in our comments, our series is still alive while y’all are studying draft prospects 😂

[@draganstojilkovic1017]

I am fed up with Jamal. Every time he is some kind of injury. He spent best Jokic years and will do in future. He is like AD only he is guard and to be honest even worse than him.

[@je5406]

Smh. You are speaking facts. GM must make some tough choices

[@MikeMike-qb6oy]

Come on guys, Murray should have been benched out of principle. Why has Malone gone so soft?

[@Von199X]

Jamal Murray is trash man. Trade him for someone who isn't injury Prone. or get a back up PG line Schroeder or Sexton

[@tashonw5345]

Mal proved me wrong last year but he's always outta shape or injured, I'm ready to move on

[@JB-jg8rr]

Man stfu, when he plays good y’all love him when he’s playing bad y’all are ready to trade him. Pick one and stick with it

[@johnbarkley925]

The Nuggets gentleman swept the Wolves last year and had three double digit wins in that series, includuding a 20 point blowout. The difference is that this year's roster is way worse because a) Jamal is injured (he averaged 27 on good efficiency last year against this same Wolves defense)and Bruce Brown is gone ( the best perimeter defender, secondary ball handler and sixth man). With Brown gone and Murray hurt the Nuggets have almost no perimeter ball handling, shot creation, playmaking and scoring. That's why they are underwhelming this playoffs. The 2024 Nuggets aren't the 2023 Nuggets.

[@tolstoyed]

murray ‘we’re the best duo in the league’

[@gauravchawla3706]

I think this season, we are relying too much on our starters. CB and PWat can contribute, especially in this series if used well. I thought it was a no brainer that Malone would insert CB in the starting lineup in place of KCP to defend Ant.

[@Ali-fo4uv]

@@gauravchawla3706bench are bums

[@VeryExtremeEpicBro]

Murray didn’t average 27 on the “same defense”. Both Jaden McDaniels and Naz Reid were out last postseason with hand injuries. They have essentially been the reason the Nuggets are 0-2 this postseason.

[@TheGreatness-gg1jx]

Nice try at an excuse. According to your calculus Denver should hold home court and maybe lose two in Minnesota. But getting DESTROYED at home does not fit your simplistic calculus.

[@kyledove1452]

Lot of Joker defenders. And I’m FAR from defending Jamal by saying this. But I have never seen worse defense from Jok. It’s been atrocious all playoffs and his decision making has been spotty. Win as a team, lose a team. They all have failed. And I’ll love them anyways. But yeah this has hurt to watch. Even with King Jok

[@Dusica-sl7ie]

Stop saying just Jok or just Jammal...are you people blind? They are not playing the same as last year,to win something you have to have amazing starters, amazing bench...I guess that is not the case...they never should've let Brown go ..

[@kyledove1452]

@@Dusica-sl7ie I’d rather be blind than stupid and not understand they had absolutely no control or chance of keeping Bruce. Everyone fully understands it’s more than those two. But if they don’t show up it doesn’t even matter what kind of supporting cast we have. Tell me you don’t get it, without telling me you don’t get it

[@Danill365]

This guys are so pathetic. Blaming Jok and Adams: "i looking him different now". He can't have bad games? JAMAL MURRAY is our killer, 3/18 wtf?

[@RS-ol8or]

Agreed. Jok carries these bums night in night out & “fans” & “analysts “ throw him under the bus. Despicable.

[@scooterk5]

Look at the bench - it’s the worst bench in the league. The complete lack of depth on this team took a physical and mental toll on the team.

[@curcicm]

Its called "project dynasty"

[@scooterk5]

It’s not Booth’s fault. You can’t fix a lack of depth of talent overnight. Before Booth had the top job, the Nuggets had some really bad summers, like the disastrous 2017 draft night, a really bad 2020 (failing to trade up a couple of spots to draft Maxey (21st), then at #22 drafting Nnaji over Bane, McDaniels, Pritchard, Quickley, Tillman) and failing to sign any of the good undrafted free agents from that period, including the likes of Naz Reid, undrafted in 2019.

[@LMV38]

Minnesota trying to win their first ring so the hunger is there like it was for the nuggets last year. Going back to back is impossible and taxing, Nuggets looked exhausted mentally and physically. They look so off last series and constantly coming from behind just takes so much out of them. I'm glad they are getting embarrassed. Get that hunger back and upgrade that bench!

[@Gnofg]

I have said this that Denver played the weakest competition of any champ I can remember. They beat barely .500 teams. The first time they faced real compeition they folded like a cheap suit. THEY GAVE UP.

[@gorantamburic2000]

@@Gnofg stop trolling

[@Gnofg]

@@gorantamburic2000 Sucks to be a nugget’s fan

[@gorantamburic2000]

@@Gnofg you LA fan ?

[@Gnofg]

@@gorantamburic2000 nope, I have watched every NBA finals since 1965. I saw Wilt, Russell and the logo. I copied my game after Havlicek. My signature move I stole from Chet Walker. I think LeBron is great but what a whiner. I have been saying for a long time that Jokic is a terrible defensive player. At times he reminds me of “big country” in college. Last night Denver gave up. To me it seems like Jokic doesn’t love basketball.

[@nuggets_gold_rush6259]

All you so called fans in the comments turned on the nuggets so fast. Smh.

[@morgan2552t]

Do you guys know how rare it is to win back to back championships?? It doesn't happen often.

[@vidadegamberro8533]

Lakers done it .

[@morgan2552t]

@@vidadegamberro8533 . Yeah Last time was the 2018 warriors. It just doesn't happen very often

[@shamsielshahar120]

​@@morgan2552tKD's weak move with the Warriors was the last one. The Heat were the last one where you have an actual chance of beating them.

[@kgar5String]

@@vidadegamberro8533 Look at those teams, so did the Warriors and the Bulls, you are neither of those teams.

[@kgar5String]

@@shamsielshahar120 It is a weak move because it was not your team, It would be dumb not to pick the best team.

[@pedjazoo]

Imagine Jokic having Jamal Murray as the second best player in the team! How on earth do you expect Jokic to be motivated? It's ridiculous.

[@kgar5String]

Motivation was not the problem, it was the wolves defense.

[@hueyhoopin]

Absurd logic

[@gauravchawla3706]

This is really embarrassing. They absolutely punked us and the major blame goes to Murray (even if he is hobbled by the injury). Jokic also didnt impose his will in the game running DHOs after DHO's and never really looked at the basket. AG, after hitting those 2 3s took absolute horrendous shots (turn around fadeaways with time on the clock and Conley on him, transition 3).

[@kgar5String]

The major blame goes to the Wolves defense.

[@dusankaibranimirkrekic9724]

We all know Murray is playing hurt. How do you guys know Jokic is not? From 3/8/2024 until now, he was 11 times on injury report with arm, back and hip injury. But now he is fine? Or not?

[@UraStr]

Player A= 22PTS on 46%FG/38% from 3, 5RB/6AST/2TO...Player B= 23PTS on 47%FG/40% from 3, 5RB/6AST/2TO...A=regular season Murray per 36, B= PO Murray (years he played in both RGS and PO)...play-off Murray is a myth, he's virtually the same player, that plays more minutes in PO, he got hot in few games, this year it's regression to the mean...

[@JSIZZLEDABOSS]

Timberwolves fans are so adorable 🥺🥺

[@ognjenbozinovic2082]

Also Nuggets management is just failed because they didn't provide any support for Jokic the is playing 95% of the game time whole seasons.. if some one to blame its the management

[@spinbackwards]

I hope the league throws the book at Murray for throwing a heat pack onto the floor. Murray should apologize to MN and Nugs Nation. But if I’m Calvin Booth, I get that MN is the team to beat now. Can I count on Murray to score against MN even if he is healthy? No. So now what?

[@-ac-8296]

The league would be helping us if they suspended Murray. Biggest punishment is to make him play

[@buddhavaro]

I hope he doesn't get suspended but just fine because I love to see him whine and cry more in game 3 and 4 😂

[@klownyou1]

Would’ve been crazy if one of his teammates slipped on it and got injured

[@benholmquist3589]

Nugs fans always overreact. We MIGHT get swept but these takes are over the top. I think we right the ship, and probbaly lose, but could get close. It was a tough game. 50/50 balls wolves way, refs, bad energy, Naz Reid can't miss... Sucked, but it's not like the Nugs are done and championship window is done. Calm down people

[@steveo7606]

Im going to book my Tickets for Olympics now thats for sure ;)

[@nikolacvejic7270]

You guys do not deserve Jokic. Guy is center he needs other players to at least bring him the ball, and they cant do even that, comon....Jokic should request trade dnvr front office didnt do anything to help him defend title. Duncan had Parker Djinobili cmon who Jokic has....big zero. You will see what Jokic will do on Olympic with Serbia he will destroy everyone, because there he has players to do lot of stuff for him. Jokic should reqvest trade and to play with Luka. They would won 5 chips easy in the row. My big take away you guys do not deserve player like Jokic

[@ljutko7]

It's gm and front office . They absolutely deserve blame. Period. We see now who's true man and he's in Minnesota.

[@UraStr]

They (we) judge him against top players of all time...no we reset our expectation and we will judge him differently...we just had unrealistic expectations, he isn't that dude, he's different dude, he's great, just not the greatest...it's okay

[@ljutko7]

@@UraStr and 1 of few who plays without another ALL star player 🤷 and that's not on him but they gonna judge....

[@morgan2552t]

Jokic also is a liability on defense.

[@Sean.Cordes]

Jokic needs to be better as much as his teammates need to be. Jokic isn't helping his teammates right now on either end. He's playing passive on both ends.

[@kbrewers]

Jamal did first throw a towel at the ref, and then seconds later threw the heat pack. not a great look. I thought maybe he could get away with, "it slipped" but thats bad

[@gorantamburic2000]

I think Jokic was not a believer at this playoffs from the start ! He knows something that we dont about this team !

[@Dusica-sl7ie]

Maybe that they suck? Jammal not plaxing well? Bad bench? What do ypu want? Magic

[@lukeostercamp3975]

Celtics will kill MN because they all got outside shooting??? Did you not just watch your team get crushed by the most elite group of perimeter defenders in the NBA??

[@deadmeat1240]

I cant help but notice that Tim Connelly goes from a team that is notoriously not willing to spend on anything other than a starting five (And actually only 4) to a team that puts a value on having a competent bench. I am sure it was a better payday, but it's obvious to me that there is at least this aspect of "Nuggets Culture" that is lacking. Other teams can be missing a huge piece of their squad and still be decent. The Nuggets management have convinced themselves that they cant afford to. So we get stuff like this. In todays NBA, you have to have a competent 6th man. The Nuggets have 3 guys that don't even add up to that.

[@Peca-sz6yt]

Jokic should request trade out of this ungrateful city and go to play with some real all stars, denver citizens should be ashamed of themselves

[@Wladislav]

I wish I could say I'm surprised, but we've been through this a few times now. As long as the starting 5 are in top shape, they are great. But if even one of them is injured or absent, the team can't function properly. As soon as that calf strain news broke, my confidence took a massive hit. Malone has to have the balls to bench Murray, or he can go down with the ship, his choice.

[@andrewmiller7052]

Minnesota just looks like the better team to me. Running more plays for MPJ will give them a better chance at winning though. But looks like this series is finished to me. Poor effort.

[@TREVANATOR55]

I cannot believe the Prequels slander that is happening on my Nuggets podcast

[@melodyisdead503]

Nuggets take the least threes and Minnesota just chills in the paint. If they wanna help find the open guy and trust him to shoot it. KCP not taking the open 3 was painful to see. How could they lose their confidence so quickly. If you don’t trust AG then get a shooter in there. They get so many points in transition because we can’t score in the paint. If we really can’t defend them then get Murray out and put Braun in. Mirror their effort at least. I mean if they are allowed to reach in, so are we right, even if our defenders are not of the same caliber. Make em work. This loss was 😭😭😭…. The wolves are a great team. I hope the nuggets will make the remaining games interesting.

[@dusankaibranimirkrekic9724]

Larry Bird in playoffs age 25, 3rd playoffs 17.8/12.5/5.6 shooting 42.7/16.7/82.2 age 26 4th playoffs 20.5/12.5/6.8 shooting 42.4/25.5/82.2 Imagine what you guys would do to Jokic if he played like this. And Bird had McHale, Parish....maybe Jokic is human after all

[@georgesredo7185]

Can anyone immagene if Jordan played with "Jamal Pippen" shooting every game 18-3, playing no defence, taking low IQ shots...could he win anything?!?!?!

[@tomzee70]

This is what Murray is sometimes great other times piss poor playoff Murray is dead.

[@bspin88]

Just an ADORABLE performance 🐺🐺🐺🐺

[@khailahher6218]

This game reminds me of the where Super Bowl where Russel Wilson and the Seahawks punched Peyton Manning and the Broncos in the mouth. So unexpected and painful.

[@ognjenbozinovic2082]

Two bad games and right he is not him self?!?! Where is faith in x3 MVP I Think the real problem is Muray the is just off

[@salmax23]

Nuggets have Michael Porter Jr Wolves have Michael Jordan Jr

[@hood_TheJoker]

you know it's bad when defenders are laughing defending.. no way Denver was going to recover from that

[@Tietsynurvinsikov]

I hope the Nuggets understand that if they have a bad showing in these playoffs, all the disrespect they fought last year will come back tenfold. They only played weak teams, it was a fluke, etc.

[@aw11348]

It's already happening. The NBA reddit, which usually showers Jokic with praise, is currently full of people calling the Nuggets frauds, calling their championship a fluke, hating on Jamal Murray, etc. Outlooks change quickly in the NBA. This is terrible for this iteration of the Nuggets' legacy

[@ljutko7]

​​@@aw11348 and so deservingly I'm afraid.

[@user-ny9rj7pl8h]

When’s the last time someone went back to back? The championship will always be there

[@vidadegamberro8533]

True they aren't true champions

[@Eastunder]

Lol what? The trophy displayed in Ball Arena says differently. Smfh these people man, wtf are you talking about​@@vidadegamberro8533

[@Starlord23]

to lose is ok, but this is kinda sad idkw. seems like trouble from inside, jok has possibly given up until some unknown things resolve

[@miketschida3507]

Aren’t the T-Wolves and their fans just adorable! Wolves are gonna howl MFers

[@nicolasrodriguez9526]

Eric, Revenge of the Sith is the best Star Wars movie btw

[@ericbaiyee8777]

They refused to give up a single layup or dunk to Denver. Denver had to use that aggression against them. Drive to the basket KNOWING they are going to bring two and find the open man.

[@Gnofg]

They have no one who can drive. That is the problem.

[@Munnnn8]

Does any1 actually think Denver would trade Murray ? or are they 2 loyal 🤔

[@Nikola-s2d]

Our backs are truly against the wall rn, i belive we show pride and come back

[@kgar5String]

It's over

[@Nikola-s2d]

@@kgar5String yea its over

[@katieambriz8396]

“The Celtics will kill Minnesota” 😂 we will see about that

[@timjoseph4085]

I don’t know if Jokic is afraid of picking up fouls or Kyle Anderson scoring but he needs to provide some resistance when guys get beat. Obviously his rebounding is a huge part of the game but he isn’t even doing that at an elite level.

[@edgardoMurnia]

Nah, he just sucks at defense. Real bad

[@RUNTHROUGHDATAPE]

Its hard to win 2 in a row in the NBA when is the last time that happened.

[@sakamoto8354]

@@christophboon1406 2011 Lakers is waving at you

[@sakamoto8354]

​@@christophboon1406 👋

[@hueyhoopin]

@@sakamoto8354they were old this team has guys all in their prime

[@UraStr]

You guys are the best. Compared to PHNX when loosing, you call out the actual stuff that's happening, PHNX doesn't understand basketball half as well as you do, and they live in alternative universe, always spinning everything that's happening...

[@joshuamartinez2182]

You can discuss that in Cancun with them very soon.

[@UraStr]

@@joshuamartinez2182 discuss what with who? :D

[@AleksJankovic]

Denver in 6.

[@pekacar4658]

The issue is that Nuggets become complacent. They didn't acquire new good play of ready players and let go of BB . There is no back up center , and they over load AG and Joker because of that. The only way to win few games before they lose is to do exactly same thing Wolves did to them, full court pressure with CB ,PWat , and CP, Reggie, Justine switching them to keep the tempo on "D" and fight . each and every player has to fight, if refs allowed it for wolves why not use it... Nuggets kept Zeke and Dj as back up centers while these two haven't played more than 5 minutes during the season. DJ is so much needed on rebounds ,yet he didn't play as much during the season so its not realistic to expect from him to do anything in playoffs. Pwat suddenly sitting on the bench all the time, while he proved he was good all season long. Give him opportunity, i believe he can be new Claw and as good as Ant is if given opportunity and guidance . They should now work on developing CB and PWAT while looking for good back up center. I was never sure why they let go of Hartenstein, some like him would mean so much in non Jokic minutes. There is no option to go FAST. Nuggets need a playmaker that can go fast in some stretches' of the game ,something like Fox( i already see comments like yeah lol Fox) just to change the pace of the game and disrupt that D. Soo all in all this mismanagement. not so good coaching , Jokic is way to relaxed and passing the ball when its clear he must step up and show us that "he can score 50 any game he wants" and Jamal has to admit that if he is playing hurt he is hurting his team more than he is hurting opponent. Also Jokic on some plays does not even bother to lift his hands up . Over all he didn't improve his D this year, but then again can you really expect from human to have such high consistency and focus for as long as he had ? Jokic just looked drained. I was thinking that slump they had at the end of season was due to conditioning and they were timing trainings but it looks they miscalculated as ever single nugget seemed out of shape these two games, and this is on coaching stuff . In games with Lakers I was thinking that they should start warming up some 30 min before they actually did so that they could start games ready. Now when I look at nuggets it seems that nuggets need whole month of rest before they could play playoff basketball. Credits to JJ Reddick for spotting importance Naz Reid last year, i was hoping nuggets would acquire him but they didn't make any moves at all. It is proven in many sports that competition with in team must raise or everyone falls in slumber and stop improving... I dont know how trading works in NBA , but i would sure love to see FOX and Markannen(,at least players with similar play stiles ), and some reliable rebounding and defensive, just any young center next season. The change on whistle was there, it was obvious, but saying more than that is just an excuse. Minnesota play just like the name. Hungry wolves hunting down elk all over the court. GG Wolves.

[@ljutko7]

It is mind-blowing to me that they don't have each other's back man... And on all of that it's unbelievable to me that 🐺 had and have all 5 starting players better than ours. I really can't believe that still. It's that bad . 1 ring is unbelievable achievement turn out....

[@cowboy7170]

In 2016 NBA Finals, Lakers came back from an 0-3 deficit to beat the Warriors 4-3 to win the Chip.

[@Been-dy3gs]

If the nuggets want to win, they need to run there offense through Mpj and jokic only. Jamal Murray gotta stop shooting, that guy is booty

[@zoranstepic5659]

still Nuggets in 6! ......if mal does not play anymore

[@DystopianUtopia8]

It's kind of fun as a Wolves fan to watch everyone not believe their eyes. We know who this team is. Naz is awesome. Kat vastly underrated as the deuce. Gotta respect the champs. Can't wait for Friday!

[@Sean.Cordes]

It's not about not believing their eyes about the Wolves. Every Nuggets fan who has watched this playoff series and the one against the Lakers can tell something is off with the Nuggets. They dont look like the same team at all and it isnt just because they dont have Bruce Brown. As a Nuggets fan I've had nothing but respect for the Wolves even last season, and have been consistent that the Wolves were the team I LEAST wanted to play this playoffs. The Wolves have been our worst matchup all season.

[@rome8055]

Nothing but respect for the Timberwolves here! I remember when we faced you guys last year you guys gave us a run for our money, most nuggets fans I know knew this would be the team to beat so I’m sure not many of us are surprised!

[@RS-ol8or]

I picked Wolves in 6 originally. Didn’t know it’d be 4. Denver was off all year. No passion, Murray always injured, etc. I saw this coming.

[@dws0828]

At least you guys have 2 banners to wipe away those tears with 🙌 better than the Clippers could say

[@zoranstepic5659]

please go and just watch the two first Denver possessions, watch mal....

[@thaoandtony]

if you know exactly how you are going to win another championship, you should be ready for that at the start of the playoffs.. It seems to me Murray should have been strategically played during regular season with serious rehab and conditioning and very little game time the last two months

[@divkagasic5784]

Way he is playing, if he hurt, get him out

[@SanderScott-p4c]

Miller Melissa Anderson Brian Johnson Cynthia

[@RS-ol8or]

I love Denver; been a fan for decades. But this team obviously has issues. Before game 1 I said Wolves in 6. Sadly I didn’t know Denver didn’t have any fight in them at all. But I was called a fair weather fan for not picking my team. I prefer to be objective & not a blind homer who looks foolish, but that’s just me. Denver all year prepped for this moment. Inconsistent, lack of passion & injuries like Murray always being injured. Here’s what needs to happen; I’ve harped on these points all year; yeah this is an I Told You So moment. 1 - Connelly > Booth. Calvin’s decisions so far in making this roster have not garnered the desired results, to be nice. CB & PWat either aren’t ready yet or they’re underachievers. Reggie at PG is a disaster. DJ & Zeke…disasters. Pickett. No help. Tim Connelly looks to have punked the Nuggets front office. 2 - Trade MPJ for a bag. Sell while his stock has ever been higher. I love Mike, but he’s a luxury not a necessity. There’s no other way to upgrade your awful bench. Plus how do you resign KCP otherwise? 3 - KCP must be resigned. 2 way players around Jok are a must. Other teams will make a push at him, but Denver has NOBODY who can replace him. 4 - Jok is the ONLY non tradable asset they have. Build around him. 5- Mal is great but always injured. If they could trade him for Luka that should be the path, but I know it’s probably a major reach & too problematic. But inconsistent & injured Mal is always gonna be an issue with this team I hate to say. 6- Strawther can fit into MPJ’s starting spot next year. Kid has game. You ALL saw it a handful of times this year. Sweet jumper, surprising defense & and midrange floater that’s better than anything Mike can do. 7- This is tied to trading Mike, but YOU HAVE TO GET A PROPER BACKUP CENTER to help Jokic! They’re burning him out. This pisses me off to no end. Between Booth giving poor players for Malone & for coach to then not play them, no matter if that’s all you have & instead burn out the best player in the world….I can’t even! 😡

[@stephanos3029]

I’m praying for a sweep and a benched Jamal please. Fuck it just let the rookies get minutes the next two games

[@yungtj100]

It’s hard to repeat….lol. Wolves hungry..Denver flat out just look tired

[@shanemcallister9200]

I’m only 8 minutes in but how is the main takeaway not “the nuggets are tired”? Peaked early and ran out of gas. Wolves d is incredible, but come on.

[@kgar5String]

Has nothing to do with Denver, it is the Wolves defense.

[@darenlobben4707]

Last year all the nuggets were good this year. All the nuggets are…😢

[@MKTG3495Interview]

A title team should be able to come back from 0-2. Unless wolves win the title, they are just a good playoff team.

[@fs6688]

Not when you were the home two in the two losses and now have to go on the road.

[@kgar5String]

ha ha ha ha ha, you think?

[@jordanbielski8443]

That was pathetic though. MN came to play.

[@somubasumatary4241]

This was like watching Lebron meltdown in 2011 except its not fun as a fan. Just pathetic showing from Jokic.

[@WodieJood]

I'm loving every minute of it . I hope you guys get swept. BOZOS

[@capcaveman86]

Not dancing anymore are you? Hope that flopper jamal murray gets suspended, throwing multiple items on the court during the game

[@austinroy9499]

Talking all that shit bout the lakers yall ass finna get sweeped😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@TheWongagy]

AWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

[@matdenzelbautista1855]

its over sweep bois

[@sgsheff]

Everyone is saying the T wolves are playing great D which they generally are but what is also going is what often happens in football when a certain team will have their DBs always hold the other teams WRs on every play to the point that it looks normal and it takes something more significant for a ref to call pass interference or defensive holding. I think that's how the T wolves are playing defensive. They know the NBA refs are allowing more contact so they are grabbing and having their hands in on every single play to the point that the refs don't call anything unless it looks like significantly more contact. The Nuggets were starting to figure this out in the end of the 3rd but mostly in the 4th with their defense and they became significantly more physical defending Minnesota. They need to continue being more physical on defense the rest of the series. The offense and the turnovers are an altogether different animal that needs fixing.

[@kgar5String]

It is called basketball, your team had the opportunity to do the same thing but they don't have the ability to do so, consequently you want the refs to help you.

[@sgsheff]

@@kgar5String did you not read that I said the Nuggets started to figure out that they could do the same thing in defense and started doing it towards the end of the game? I was observing/analyzing not complaining. You act like I went to a T Wolves podcast to complain about something when in fact you came to a Nuggets podcast to say something stupid. The T Wolves played two great games and deserved to win like they did and now it's an opportunity for you to see if you're capable of behaving like an adult or not.