As we wrote in our presentation of the series, it was collectively that the Wolves decided to defend on Nikola Jokic, and the plan worked. If the Serb compiled 32 points, 9 assists and 8 rebounds in Game 1, he did not have his usual impact with 7 lost balls and 2 of 9 at 3-points. Asked about the impact of Rudy Gobert on his performance, Jokic is nuanced.
“It’s not just him… They have a few guys who can take over the rotations” explains the Denver pivot. “They have size, they are physical, they force you to take difficult shots. And it’s not just that! They also know what to do on pick-and-rolls, and they put good defenders on Jamal (Murray) and Reggie (Jackson). It's a really good team. »
Admiring the many qualities of Wolves
Is there a solution to respond to this defense centered around Rudy Gobert, Karl-Anthony Towns and Naz Reid? “I'll have to make a clone of myself, and that way I can stay fresh.” As soon as they bring in another guy, I'll be fresh.” quips Jokic. “Actually, I don't really know… That's what they're good at: they can play small ball, they can play on their interior… They can rely on a lot of players, and they have wingspan and they are physical. They are very good at rebounding and they are aggressive. I am satisfied with the shots I took. I missed a few, I posted a few. It's a tough series, and they're a really good defensive team. »
Speaking of defense, Jokic points to the easy baskets scored by the Wolves. Already against the Lakers, the Nuggets had great difficulty protecting access to the circle. “We can accept that Naz or Rudy make a shot… but there are too many easy baskets, lay-ups… No doubt some are registered on duels, others on systems, and others because of our defense. There's a little bit of everything. If you find yourself in difficulty in a duel, you need to help more. We have to try to be more physical and more aggressive. »
