Dorian Finney-Smith's Salute: A Gesture of Respect and Resilience

Despite another stellar performance from Nikola JokiΔ, the Denver Nuggets fell short in a tough matchup. The reigning two-time MVP nearly secured a triple-double, once again showcasing his all-around dominance. However, the Nuggets struggled in key moments, allowing their opponents to capitalize and seal the win.
Nikola JokiΔ continues to prove why he’s one of the best players in the NBA. His ability to score, rebound, and facilitate makes him a matchup nightmare for any defense.
✅ 28 points, 12 rebounds, 9 assists π₯πͺ
✅ Shot 60% from the field π―π
✅ Led the team in rebounds & assists ππ
JokiΔ controlled the pace of the game, making smart decisions and keeping the Nuggets within reach. However, the lack of support from his teammates made it difficult for Denver to pull off a win.
The Nuggets played a competitive first three quarters, but the game slipped away in the final minutes.
πΉ Turnovers in key moments ❌π
πΉ Defensive lapses leading to easy baskets π«π₯
πΉ Missed three-pointers down the stretch π―❌
Despite JokiΔ’s efforts, the Nuggets couldn’t close out the game, leading to a disappointing loss.
JokiΔ did everything he could, but the Nuggets’ supporting cast struggled.
⭐ Jamal Murray: 18 points, 5 assists π―π₯
⭐ Michael Porter Jr.: 14 points, 7 rebounds ππ
⭐ Aaron Gordon: 10 points, 8 rebounds πͺπ―
While Murray had some strong moments, the Nuggets needed more consistency from their role players.
This loss exposes key weaknesses the Nuggets must address as they push for another deep playoff run.
✅ Better perimeter defense to limit three-pointers π⛔
✅ More consistent bench production π―πͺ
✅ Stronger execution in clutch moments ππ
If the Nuggets can make these adjustments, they will remain a top contender in the Western Conference.
Despite the loss, JokiΔ continues to play at an MVP level. His elite passing, rebounding, and scoring ability make him one of the most valuable players in the league.
π Elite playmaking from the center position π―π
π Unstoppable scoring efficiency ππͺ
π Leadership and impact on both ends of the floor ππ
If JokiΔ keeps delivering performances like this, he could be in line for his third MVP award.
π Crucial matchups against top Western Conference teams ππ₯
π Adjusting defensive schemes to avoid late-game collapses π«π
π Stronger contributions from the bench unit πͺ⚡
The Nuggets still have a championship-caliber roster, but they need to sharpen their focus to make a deep playoff run.
π₯ Can JokiΔ lead Denver to another championship? Drop your thoughts below! ππ
With Nikola JokiΔ performing at an elite level, the Denver Nuggets remain a top contender in the Western Conference. However, their inconsistencies and reliance on JokiΔ could be a concern as they push for another deep playoff run.
JokiΔ’s impact on the Nuggets extends beyond the stat sheet. His basketball IQ, leadership, and ability to make teammates better are what separate him from other superstars.
✅ Elite passing to create easy scoring opportunities π―π
✅ Commanding the offense with high IQ plays ππ
✅ Consistent double teams creating open shots for teammates ππͺ
✅ Strong rebounding to start fast-break opportunities ⏩π
With JokiΔ leading the charge, the Nuggets have the tools to be a serious title threat—but they need more consistency from the supporting cast.
One of the biggest concerns for Denver this season has been the lack of consistent contributions outside of JokiΔ. When he’s off the floor, the Nuggets struggle to generate offense and maintain defensive intensity.
πΈ Bench production must improve to keep leads intact π❌
πΈ Jamal Murray needs to be a more consistent second option π―π₯
πΈ Defensive lapses must be minimized to avoid late-game collapses π«π
πΈ Three-point shooting has to become more reliable ππͺ
If Denver can find solutions to these problems, they have the potential to dominate in the playoffs.
The Western Conference is loaded with elite teams, meaning the Nuggets can’t afford too many slip-ups.
π Phoenix Suns (Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, Bradley Beal) ππ₯
π Golden State Warriors (Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green) π―π
π Los Angeles Lakers (LeBron James, Anthony Davis, D’Angelo Russell) πͺπ
π Memphis Grizzlies (Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr.) ππ
Denver will need peak performances from JokiΔ and stronger contributions from their supporting cast to keep up with these powerhouse teams.
Despite the loss, JokiΔ remains a front-runner for the MVP award. His incredible consistency, efficiency, and leadership make him one of the most valuable players in the league.
πΉ JokiΔ (Denver Nuggets): Near triple-double averages, elite efficiency π―π₯
πΉ Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks): Dominating both ends of the floor πͺπ
πΉ Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers): Elite scoring & defense ππ
πΉ Luka DonΔiΔ (Dallas Mavericks): Carrying his team with scoring & playmaking ππ
If JokiΔ continues putting up dominant performances, he could become one of the few players in NBA history to win three MVPs.
π Adjusting game plans to avoid fourth-quarter collapses ππ
π Finding more offensive production outside of JokiΔ & Murray π―πͺ
π Improving defense to stop late-game scoring runs π«π₯
π Proving they can bounce back with a statement win π⚡
The Nuggets have the talent and leadership to compete for another championship, but they must stay focused and improve in key areas.
π₯ Do you think Nikola JokiΔ can lead Denver to another title? Drop your thoughts below! ππ