Jokić's Nuggets Exit Early as Timberwolves Advance; Knicks Make Playoff History

Jokić's Nuggets Exit Early as Timberwolves Advance; Knicks Make Playoff History

Three years after leading the Denver Nuggets to the NBA championship, Nikola Jokić faced a disheartening early exit in the playoffs. The Nuggets fell to the Minnesota Timberwolves in six games during the first round, marking the first time in four years that Denver did not progress to May. In the decisive Game 6, Jokić posted impressive stats with 28 points, 10 assists, and 9 rebounds, but it wasn't enough in the 110-98 loss. Rudy Gobert, a four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year, effectively contained Jokić throughout the series. Meanwhile, Jokić's teammate Jamal Murray struggled significantly, finishing Game 6 with a game-worst minus-18 rating and only converting 4 of 17 shots. As Jokić prepares for his 12th season, he expressed a desire to remain with the Nuggets, stating, "I still want to be Nuggets forever." In contrast, coach David Adelman faces uncertainty after completing his first full season. Jokić remarked on the potential for changes, saying, "If we were in Serbia we would all be fired," yet he defended Adelman, emphasizing the team's failures rather than the coach's. In other playoff action, the New York Knicks achieved a historic victory, overwhelming the Atlanta Hawks 140-89 in Game 6. OG Anunoby led the Knicks with 29 points, and they set multiple playoff records, including the largest halftime lead in history. Karl-Anthony Towns contributed significantly, earning his second triple-double of the series. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia 76ers forced a decisive Game 7 against the Boston Celtics with a 106-93 win, thanks to Tyrese Maxey's 30 points and a strong performance from Paul George. The final showdown will take place on Saturday in Boston.

Source: The Guardian Sport - 2026-05-01