The Denver Nuggets are facing a tough challenge, aiming to bounce back from a 2-0 series deficit against the Minnesota Timberwolves after losing two home games. Coach Michael Malone is pulling out all the stops to ignite a turnaround.
Following Wednesday’s practice, Malone openly questioned his team’s belief, emphasizing the need for a more physical approach and calling upon the team’s leaders to step up.
Despite an impressive run to the title last summer, Denver has stumbled recently, losing three of their last four games. Finding themselves in a tough spot against the Wolves isn’t entirely unfamiliar to the franchise or its players, but it’s one they hadn’t anticipated.
“What I want to see from our team leaders is a united belief and a higher level of performance,” Malone stressed. “When was the last time Jamal Murray performed like that? Nikola Jokic, who hopefully will secure his third MVP tonight, is capable of much more. We need to acknowledge Minnesota’s strengths, but we also need to take responsibility. We all need to step up — coaches, players, everyone. Less talk, more action. We need to believe in ourselves and show it on the court.”
Murray’s struggles have been evident, with subpar performances in the postseason, including a notable drop in scoring and shooting percentages against the Wolves. Similarly, Jokic’s numbers have dipped compared to their earlier playoff series against the Lakers, culminating in a disappointing loss on Monday.
Malone: we have to participate in it… we’re not gonna comeback just because it’s us… why are we always needing to comeback? All year we were a great first quarter team. pic.twitter.com/E2ybqZnzZY
— Jake Shapiro (@Shapalicious) May 8, 2024
“History shows that teams have come back from 0-2 deficits, even from losing the first two at home,” Malone pointed out. “But it requires the right mindset. We need to focus on winning Game 3 first, not worry about winning four straight. We’ve shown resilience before, and we need that same mindset now.”
Malone emphasized the importance of reclaiming their strong starts, as the Nuggets have struggled to lead after the first quarter in their playoff games so far. Against a formidable opponent like Minnesota, coming back from large deficits isn’t a viable strategy.
“We need to return to our championship-winning style of basketball,” Malone asserted. “We need to believe in ourselves and play like champions. Actions speak louder than words, and we’ll see if we truly believe in ourselves come Friday night.”
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