The Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves clash in Game 3 after Anthony Edwards led Minnesota to victory in Game 2, levelling the first-round series at 1-1. The two teams have an even record of 15-15 over the past four seasons, including the postseasons. The first two games have been full of highlights, starring Nikola Jokić, Jamal Murray, and Anthony Edwards. Expect more of the same when they meet in Minneapolis for Game 3.
McDaniels’ Comments Fuel the Rivalry
Jaden McDaniels’ post-Game 2 comments are expected to have an impact. McDaniels said that the Timberwolves’ strategy in their 119-114 victory involved attacking the “bad defenders” on the Nuggets team. He named Jokić, Jamal Murray, Tim Hardaway Jr., Cam Johnson, and Aaron Gordon as examples. Gordon responded by saying, “Brother, I don’t care”.
McDaniels’ remarks may resonate in Game 3 because there is some truth to them. Also, the players are proud. During the regular season, Denver’s defensive efficiency was ranked 21st. They allowed 116 points per 100 possessions, which was worse than every other playoff team. McDaniels added, “They don’t got people that can defend the rim,” and “We’re still more athletic than them and just got to be able to finish when we do.”
Keys to Game 3
Three things to watch for in Game 3 include Denver’s defence, Nikola Jokić’s slow starts, and the health of both teams. Both teams have been making adjustments. They are confident they can respond to each other’s tactics. By tipoff, both teams will have had several opportunities to consider the post-Game 2 comments made by Minnesota’s Jaden McDaniels.
If the Timberwolves have their way, especially in the paint and in isolation, the Nuggets’ confidence could dwindle. Disparaging comments can work two ways. If Denver stiffens and pay, McDaniels’ words will backfire.
Denver’s Defensive Challenges
- Denver ranked 21st in defensive efficiency during the regular season.
- The Nuggets allowed 116 points per 100 possessions.
- They finished 28th in blocked shots.
Denver is vertically challenged. They don’t have any 7-footers. Only Jonas Valančiūas and Jokić (both 6-foot-11) are taller than 6-8.
Game 3 takes place in Minneapolis. Both teams will have had several opportunities to consider the post-Game 2 comments made by Minnesota’s Jaden McDaniels.