Nikola Jokic had a forgettable Game 3 on Thursday as Rudy Gobert and the Timberwolves completely outplayed him. The Nuggets lost 113-96, going down 2-1 with Sunday’s game also in Minnesota. Jokic’s defense, in particular, was under heavy scrutiny as Minnesota repeatedly attacked the paint to exploit the three-time MVP. Jokic couldn’t provide any resistance under the rim, either.
Minnesota took a 25-11 lead after the first quarter and led by as many as 27. After a lackluster defensive effort, Jokic couldn’t bail out the Nuggets with his offense. He finished with 27 points, 15 rebounds, three assists and four turnovers, but shot a measly 7 of 26, including 2 of 10 from deep. Gobert had three blocks on him and a couple of highlight plays offensively. The four-time Defensive Player of the Year had 10 points, 12 rebounds and three assists to go with his three swats.
Not just Gobert, but the rest of the Timberwolves also found success at various points on both ends against Jokic. After his no-show performance, NBA fans pounced on the chance to mock the Nuggets star. Here’s how they reacted.
“Angel Reese can score 10 on Jokic easy,” one fan said.
“Would love to see how Sports media and Podcasters defend this garbage performance from Jokic,” another wrote.
“This Jokic s**t worse than 2011 LeBron,” one fan added.
“The jokic best in the world gimmick has to stop for real. You wont make a deep run with him the anchor of your defense. If Aaron Gordon means this much to your team then are you even the most valuable player to your own roster? Gordon has to cover up so much defensively for him,” one fan wrote.
“Attacking Jokic every possession rn is the most free eats of all time.” one fan joked.
“MVP finalist based on sham media idiocy. Media credentials for MVP votes should be revoked and let the players and coaches vote,” another said.
Rudy Gobert makes feelings clear on Nikola Jokic
Rudy Gobert has guarded some of the most versatile centers in the NBA. According to him, Nikola Jokic is the greatest offensive player he’s matched up against. After dominating that duel in Thursday’s Game 3, Gobert gave Jokic his flowers and explained what’s led to his success against the three-time MVP, saying:
“He’s the greatest offensive player I’ve guarded in my whole career, so just trying to enjoy the challenge. Make him work, as mucha as I can. And it’s also team effort.”
Gobert praised Jaden McDaniels, Ayo Dosunmu, Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle for also stepping up on that end of the floor. Gobert said his plan remains to make Jokic “earn” every possession against him.
