UPDATE: Nuggets Hatched Master Plan To Stay On Parade

Nikola Jokić – A+

Nikola Jokić orchestrated a brilliant strategy for Game 5 and executed it flawlessly, showcasing his mastery of the game. Following the electric atmosphere of Ball Arena and receiving his third MVP award, Jokić took on the formidable challenge posed by the NBA’s top defense.

His approach was straightforward: if help defense arrived, he distributed the ball; if not, he dismantled defenders with his scoring prowess. Despite facing the formidable Rudy Gobert, a four-time Defensive Player of the Year, Jokić dominated the court, leaving no doubt about the deserving recipients of their respective awards. His unparalleled ability to evade single coverage made him virtually unstoppable.

Jokić’s performance was a spectacle to behold, scoring forty points efficiently while also orchestrating 13 assists without a turnover, effectively disassembling the opposing defense. The pivotal moment came in the third quarter, where a timely timeout from coach Michael Malone halted the Minnesota Timberwolves’ surge. Jokić then proceeded to deliver one of the most memorable quarters of his career, amassing 16 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assists in just 12 minutes, shooting with remarkable accuracy. Despite the efforts of Gobert and the Timberwolves, they were powerless against his dominance.

Reflecting on this game brings to mind the narratives passed down through generations about sporting legends and the moments that etch themselves into history. Witnessing Game 5 was akin to witnessing greatness, as skepticism about Jokić’s abilities was dispelled, much like the futile resistance faced by Gobert. This game solidified Jokić’s status as the preeminent player of his era, positioning him in the company of basketball’s all-time greats. If Game 4 served as a reminder, Game 5 cemented Jokić’s legacy, leaving no doubts about his competitiveness or his place in the annals of basketball history.

Jamal Murray – B

Murray’s contribution in the game was understated compared to Jokić’s, yet he operated with stealthy effectiveness. He managed to notch 16 points with a 7/14 shooting performance and added 4 assists. Demonstrating a keen sense of control, Murray navigated the pace of the game as he penetrated the lane, carefully observing the defensive schemes.

Jamal Murray:

“If Jok got it going, there’s no reason for me to force anything. There’s no need for me to make something up—any of us.

So, I felt like tonight (I) was just being whatever the team needed….the main thing is not forcing anything.”#StayOnParade pic.twitter.com/FH1gzYJ3co

— DNVR Nuggets (@DNVR_Nuggets) May 15, 2024

While there were instances where he needed to take charge and score with quick shifts in momentum and clever finishes around the basket—including a floater and a turnaround jumper—he also recognized when to defer. In Game 5, the spotlight belonged to Jokić, and Murray was content to play a supporting role, eschewing any desire to steal the limelight.

Aaron Gordon – B+

Jokić dominated the game as the most impactful player, but Aaron Gordon stood out for his exceptional effort. He displayed remarkable speed and agility, evidenced by his energetic performance on the court. Gordon showcased his athleticism with four impressive dunks and secured five offensive rebounds. Additionally, he demonstrated his defensive prowess by taking two charges in a short span of time.

Beyond the stats, Gordon contributed in numerous small ways, ultimately achieving a double-double and dishing out five assists. He also played a key role alongside Anthony Edwards, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and Christian Braun in containing Minnesota’s top player, making it one of their most effective defensive performances yet.

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope – A

Pope had been in a slump but came out strong in the game, hitting four out of five three-pointers, scoring 16 points, grabbing 5 rebounds, and making 4 assists. He even managed to draw an offensive foul, a move he’s known for.

In the previous games, Pope struggled on both offense and defense, particularly against Edwards, who posed a challenge for Denver’s top perimeter defender. However, in Game 5, Pope found more success, partly due to Edwards’ fatigue and a revised defensive strategy from the Nuggets.

Michael Malone on Denver’s composure:

“I think it comes from experience. I think it comes from raising a banner this year…”#StayOnParade pic.twitter.com/cYkP3ebUbm

— DNVR Nuggets (@DNVR_Nuggets) May 15, 2024

Michael Malone commented on the adjustments made, stating, “We recognized the need to change our approach with Anthony Edwards. He’s a force to reckon with. KCP, CB, Aaron all stepped up, but we also employed double teams and traps on Edwards. It demanded a lot of energy, but our players committed to executing it.”

Michael Porter Jr. – D

Porter appears to lag behind in keeping up with the pace of the game, both in offense and defense. Despite a promising beginning in the series, he seems to struggle to keep up with the rapid movements on the court. Although he managed to contribute with some good rebounds and two blocks amidst the chaos, his errors overshadow these achievements. Similar to Bruce Brown’s role last year, Christian Braun took charge of cleaning up the mess.

Christian Braun – A

Braun once more stepped up to finish the game instead of MPJ. Malone found it an obvious choice. Porter faced difficulties, while Braun was fully focused. He added significant defensive prowess against Edwards and scored in double digits, with 10 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 blocks. His clutch three-pointer in the fourth quarter highlighted his current high confidence level.

Justin Holiday – C

Holiday didn’t make any three-pointers this time around, but he played for about fifteen minutes, secured three rebounds, and ended up with a positive contribution. There’s nothing particularly noteworthy or concerning to mention.

Reggie Jackson – A-

The unexpected delight in the second round has been the time spent on the bench, with Jackson emerging as a quietly influential element. The Nuggets haven’t heavily relied on him, yet in brief appearances, he’s demonstrated exceptional basketball skills. He made all three of his shots in about six minutes of play.