Jokic Acknowledges Timberwolves' Strength After Game 7 Loss
In a hard-fought Game 7 clash, the Minnesota Timberwolves clinched victory against the Denver Nuggets, securing their place in the Western Conference finals with a score of 98-90.
Nikola Jokic, the standout performer for the Nuggets, acknowledged the strengths of the Timberwolves, stating, "I mean, I think they're built to beat us," citing their roster composition. He praised their lineup featuring two All-Stars and highlighted the defensive prowess of two key players, alongside labeling Mike Conley as one of the NBA's most underrated talents.
Despite a valiant effort from Jokic and Jamal Murray, who combined for 69 points, the Nuggets faltered after taking an early 20-point lead in the third quarter. Jokic noted the necessity for perfection to secure a championship in the current competitive landscape of the NBA.
After trailing 0-2 in the series, Denver rallied to win the next three games, only to be matched by a determined Timberwolves team. Karl-Anthony Towns and Jaden Daniels led Minnesota's scoring efforts in Game 7, with support from their teammates, including a notable contribution from Naz Reid off the bench.
Timberwolves' President of Basketball Operations Tim Connelly attributed the victory partly to luck, a sentiment echoed by their previous ties to the Nuggets organization through Connelly's tenure before joining Minnesota in 2022.
With their eyes now set on the Western Conference finals, the Timberwolves are geared to face the Dallas Mavericks in Game 1 on Wednesday.
