In a heart-wrenching Game 7 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, Nikola Jokic reflected on the season’s end and the challenges faced by his team during the series. In a postgame interview, the Denver Nuggets’ star center candidly discussed his takeaways from the game and shared insights into the broader implications for the team’s championship aspirations.
Jokic noted the similarities between the decisive Game 7 and their previous playoff encounters, particularly in terms of turnovers and shooting struggles. “We turned the ball over. We didn’t make enough shots. They were aggressive, running in transition, and attacking us back,” he explained. The Nuggets faced a formidable Thunder team that was relentless in their pursuit, which ultimately led to Denver’s downfall.
When asked about the future of the Nuggets and their potential to contend for another championship, Jokic was direct. “I mean, we didn’t win, so obviously we can’t. If we could, we would have won it,” he stated, emphasizing the missed opportunities that defined the series. Despite the disappointment, he acknowledged the effort of his teammates, particularly Aaron Gordon, who played through injury. “He’s a lion. He went out there and fought with us,” Jokic said appreciatively, highlighting the grit and determination displayed by his fellow players.
The matchup between Jokic and Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was a key storyline throughout the series, and Jokic expressed his respect for the Thunder star. “He’s a special player,” he remarked, commending Gilgeous-Alexander’s shot-making ability and defensive prowess. The two have faced off multiple times this season, and Jokic’s acknowledgment of his opponent’s talent reflects the competitive spirit that defines playoff basketball.
As the Nuggets look to the future, Jokic also spoke about the coaching changes within the team, specifically praising David Adelman, who stepped up as head coach late in the season. “I think he changed the energy. The guys were woken up a little bit,” Jokic noted, recognizing Adelman’s impact on the team’s performance during the playoffs. However, when asked about Adelman’s potential as a permanent head coach, Jokic deferred, stating that such decisions are beyond his pay grade.
Depth was a recurring theme in the series, with the Thunder showcasing a deeper rotation compared to the Nuggets. Jokic acknowledged the challenges of competing against teams with greater bench depth, suggesting that the Nuggets’ shorter rotation made it difficult to maintain performance against such formidable opponents. “We definitely need a longer rotation,” he admitted, underscoring the importance of team depth in postseason success.
Reflecting on the season as a whole, Jokic expressed pride in the Nuggets’ resilience, particularly in their first-round victory over the Clippers, which many doubted. “We always found a way to win,” he said, emphasizing the team’s tenacity. Individually, he was grateful for his health throughout the season, which allowed him to contribute consistently.
Looking ahead to the offseason, Jokic indicated that he plans to participate in international competitions, including the Olympics, which he believes will further enhance his skills. “I think Olympics make me even better,” he remarked, demonstrating his commitment to continuous improvement.
The Nuggets’ journey may have ended in disappointment, but Jokic’s reflections offer a glimpse into the team’s potential as they prepare for the future. With lessons learned and a foundation of talent, the Nuggets remain poised to build upon their playoff experience in pursuit of a championship.