Denver, Colorado – In a pivotal fourth quarter of Game 6, the absence of the Denver Nuggets’ star player, Nikola Jokić, on the court raised eyebrows. Typically a mainstay during critical moments, Jokić had logged intense minutes in past games, including being on the floor for entire fourth quarters when team strategy dictated a win was essential. Despite a mixed record during those late-game stints—where Denver triumphed in some instances but faltered in others—Nuggets coach David Adelman made the bold decision to give Jokić a breather this time around.
The unexpected opportunity arose thanks to Julian Strawther, a rarely used reserve who made a splash by scoring eight quick points late in the third quarter, helping the Nuggets regain momentum and enter the final frame with a tight contest at 80-80. Strawther’s performance, which ultimately totaled 15 points, provided Adelman with the luxury of resting his star player without sacrificing the team’s lead.
With 10:29 remaining in the game, the Nuggets had opened an 11-point lead following a three-pointer by Jamal Murray. Conventional wisdom would have suggested returning Jokić to the game immediately, but Adelman opted to continue relying on his bench. Tensions surfaced as Oklahoma City managed to respond quickly, narrowing the deficit, but a pivotal block by Peyton Watson halted their momentum. Watson’s defensive prowess, coupled with a crucial offensive rebound later on, allowed Strawther to extend the lead further, ultimately setting the stage for Jokić’s return.
Although the series featured high-profile talents, including some of basketball’s finest, it highlighted a critical narrative: the Nuggets’ success hinged on the contributions of their supporting cast. Jokić had racked up an impressive number of potential assists, but his teammates often faltered in converting those opportunities. Previously, the Nuggets had struggled when secondary players underperformed, with dismal shooting percentages in crucial moments leading to significant losses.
Strawther’s surprising performance and Watson’s defensive stops highlighted the potential of the bench players, which has been under scrutiny throughout the season. In the context of this series, a bench player scoring a notable 15 points transformed the outlook for the Nuggets, providing a lifeline in a season characterized by uncertainty regarding the younger talent’s readiness for the playoff stage.
Amidst all this, Christian Braun also delivered an impressive stat line, contributing 23 points, 11 rebounds, five assists, and three steals. These significant contributions from lesser-known players come at a crucial juncture for the franchise, especially after former general manager Calvin Booth’s reliance on emerging talents drew mixed reviews leading into the playoffs.
The Nuggets’ current journey is intertwined with the hopes of a franchise expected to contend. Whether the young players can consistently support Jokić on the court remains an open question, but the recent performance in Game 6 could signal a turning point.
Jokić doesn’t require excessive help to keep Denver competitive; a modest contribution from his teammates may be all the team needs to advance further into the playoffs. As the Nuggets prepare for their next games, the spotlight will be on these rising players, and whether this performance can be built upon in the coming challenges will determine their remaining postseason fate.