“We Would All Be Fired”: Nikola Jokic Gives Brutal Reality Check on Elimination With a Clear Message on Nuggets Future
IMAGN ©IMAGN The unprecedented rivalry between the Minnesota Timberwolves and Denver Nuggets hit a pause with the stunning first-round exit that has sent shockwaves through the Mile High City. Against injuries, ejections, and petty tactics, the Wolves won 110-98 and have extended their all-time playoff record against Denver to 3-1. So they aren’t answering the burning questions.
That would be left for three-time MVP Nikola Jokic. After the heated viral moments he made this series, he was uncharacteristically somber at his final post-game presser of the season. Yet, his usual bluntness was far from dull.
Jokic had a straightforward assessment of the Denver Nuggets’ current standing against most teams in the league. When asked about the team’s proximity to championship contention after their season ended prematurely, Jokic did not mince words. “We just lost in the first round.
I think we are far away,” Jokic stated. His most striking comment, however, gave a glimpse into the high-stakes pressure of his home basketball culture, where consequences for such a failure would be much swifter. He was asked if changes are coming to the Nuggets, and he said, “That’s not my decision.
Definitely, if we were in Serbia, we would all be fired. ” Considering the Nuggets fired a coach mid-playoffs last year, this comment should send a chill down a few spines. Maybe The Joker does want some changes.