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JOKIĆ HONEST IN VICTORY: “If I made the free throw, we would’ve won in regulation, we were the more combative team”

by Serbian Times20. April 2025.20. April 2025.

The Denver Nuggets managed to defend home court and defeat the Los Angeles Clippers in the first game of the Western Conference quarterfinal series with a 112:110 win after overtime.

The player most responsible for the Nuggets’ victory was Nikola Jokić with 29 points, nine rebounds, and 12 assists. He had the support of his teammates, which was crucial for Denver to keep its winning rhythm.

Jokić spoke at the post-game press conference, first summarizing his impressions.

“It was a tight, real playoff game. At times, neither we nor they could score. There was a lot of contact, but we found a way to win in overtime. I think we could have finished it in regulation, but I missed the free throw.”

The Clippers allowed Ivica Zubac to defend Jokić one-on-one, but at times they also doubled the three-time league MVP.

“That happens, and those are the adjustments during a game. The next game will be completely different. We’re preparing for anything they might do.”

It was clearly visible that the Nuggets were the more combative team.

“We had many such situations. Russ missed a three-pointer, then stole the ball. Gordon had five offensive rebounds, and in key moments. That doesn’t show up in the stats.”

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At the end of the game, Jokić had an interesting interaction with Jeff Van Gundy. The Clippers’ assistant didn’t want to give the ball to Nikola, and the two nearly got into a scuffle.

“That’s part of basketball today. It shouldn’t happen because the NBA wants to speed up the game, inbounding the ball, and so on. That’s what they said before the season. They told me I’m not allowed to tie my laces to steal a few seconds, but apparently this is allowed.”

On Russell Westbrook:
“He missed easy layups, but he was aggressive, grabbed offensive rebounds, played in transition. He hit a crucial three and then stole the ball at the end. That’s him. He has the most confidence in this series. He’s been with the Clippers, he’s known Harden for a long time, and he knows what to do.”

Jokić and his crew now have a rest day, before Game 2 (Tuesday, 4:00 AM).