When the Denver Nuggets fell behind 0-2 against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second round, many doubted their ability to bounce back.
Anthony Edwards and the Timberwolves were performing at their best, leaving the Nuggets struggling to counter Chris Finch’s strategies.
Nevertheless, Mike Malone, Nikola Jokic, and the entire team rallied to win three consecutive games against the Timberwolves.
Jokic demonstrated his MVP caliber with remarkable performances, particularly shining in Game 5, where he narrowly missed a triple-double by three rebounds.
Some analysts remain steadfast in their opinions about the Nuggets, but others, like Stephen A. Smith, are more open to reassessment based on new information.
Initially critical when the Timberwolves won two consecutive games on Denver’s home court, Smith eventually revised his stance on the Nuggets following their recent performance.
Stephen A. Smith offers an apology to the Denver Nuggets for his skepticism regarding their abilities against Minnesota
On Wednesday’s edition of First Take, the experienced broadcaster seized the moment to communicate his thoughts to the Nuggets and their fans regarding his earlier views on the team during the series. According to Matt Hladik of The Spun:
“If Denver wins this series, if Denver ends up going to the Finals…not only am I going to go on [Mark Schlereth’s] radio show, I might personally go on a damn apology tour throughout the city of Denver,” Smith said. “That’s how embarrassed I am by what I have seen Minnesota do over these last three games. It’s been bad, Perk. It’s been bad.
“I’m looking at Denver, if they overcome this, I’ve got to be like a politician in Denver. ‘I’m sorry. I’m sorry, please forgive me.’ That’s what I’ve got to do throughout the city of Denver,” Smith continued. “That’s what I’m gonna have to do! This is embarrassing!”
The thought of Smith personally apologizing to every Denver Nuggets fan is amusing, although it’s improbable.
Nonetheless, it highlights the impressive nature of the Nuggets’ current dominance over their opponents. Jokic is excelling in his leadership role, averaging 29.4 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 9.2 assists per game.
Aaron Gordon is contributing with 17.4 points, and Murray is gradually regaining form with 16.8 points per game.
The trio on Minnesota is grappling with their inability to contain Jokic and the Nuggets. If the team maintains their unity and relies on their star center, they could potentially secure consecutive trips to the Western Conference Finals.
