The Denver Nuggets had been defeated for the second straight time after struggling a 109-128 loss by the Portland Path Blazers.
Taking part in with out MVP contender Nikola Jokic, the Denver Nuggets gave the impression to be struggling within the second half, permitting the younger Path Blazers to attain 74 factors.
Aaron Gordon, Russell Westbrook and Michael Porter Jr. mixed scored 58 factors, however Jamal Murray was quiet all through the sport, scoring simply 10 factors in a 5-10 capturing from the sphere.
Coach Michael Malone was visibly irritated by the crew’s efficiency and headed out to a post-game press convention.
“It was embarrassing, it was only a joke.
“It is 11 video games to go, and that is the hassle we put into it. I am embarrassed by the sport, the method and the best way we play.
“I do not know what our friends are considering at 11. We’ll problem our friends to have a look at the rankings and have a look at the remainder of our schedule. If we maintain enjoying, we’ll be within the play-in match,” Malone mentioned.
Additionally, followers weren’t significantly happy with the Nuggets’ efficiency at night time.
One fan mentioned, “The Denver Nuggets aren’t a candidate. Yesterday was the Calbane Sales space of Hearth.”
One other was added, however “Trying on the Denver Nuggets and not using a Jokic is like slowly bleeding from the eyes.”
Followers additionally mentioned it wasn’t the very best time to turn out to be a Nuggets fan.
“It is terrible to be a Nuggets fan proper now,” he mentioned.
One fan mentioned: “I am nonetheless making an attempt to see why individuals are saying the Duck Denver Nuggets within the playoffs, that they had a dominant playoff that actually received every part.
Followers had been sturdy in attendance with Malone. “It seems Michael Malone has misplaced this crew. The gamers are now not listening to him. We want a brand new coach subsequent 12 months who can profit from his gamers.”
The Nuggets’ defeat to the Blazers pushed them to fourth place within the Western Convention standings.
The challenges for the 2023 champions are upcoming video games because the Houston Rockets, Minnesota Timberwolves and Golden State Warriors await.
Jokic’s absence is severely hindering the crew and so they should see an answer that bounces again from the unlucky consequence.
Murray might want to enhance his sport with the remainder of the matchups, as he heads out towards the La Lakers and the Golden State Warriors.
Gordon posted some huge performances, however that wasn’t sufficient for the crew.
Nuggets can’t afford to drop the sport as greater than three groups compete for direct areas within the playoffs.
