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Minnesota Timberwolves star Rudy Gobert drew the task of guarding Nikola Jokic in their first-round series against the Denver Nuggets. However, the former Defensive Player of the Year had a hard time and could have been ejected on one particular play.
Jokic has been dominating against some of the NBA's best defenders. As a two-time MVP, he routinely makes good defenders look bad. However, this also means he is often on the receiving end of physical defensive schemes.
This was evident in Denver's 122-113 win in Game 2 on Wednesday when Timberwolves big man Rudy Gobert practically slapped Jokic in the face while guarding him.
After beating Gobert on the turnaround, Jokic attempted a routine hook shot over the left shoulder. Gobert, known for his shot-blocking prowess, missed an attempt to stuff the shot. However, the follow-through saw him catch Jokic clean in the face.
What's surprising is that play carried on while Jokic recovered from the hit on the floor. This could have led to a review for a flagrant foul, but Gobert, who has already been suspended once this season, seemingly got away with his actions.
Nikola Jokic is coasting in the playoffs
Nikola Jokic is undoubtedly one of the NBA's best big men. But what is impressive about the way he operates with the Denver Nuggets is his trust in his teammates.
The first two games in the playoffs are a great example of this. The Nuggets dominated against the Timberwolves in both games, but Jokic wasn't the most dominant player on the floor in either game.
In Game 1, Jokic played only 28 minutes and notched 13 points and 14 rebounds, along with six assists. However, the Serbian played a more vital role in supporting his teammate Jamal Murray, who went off for 24 points.
Jokic did significantly more in Game 2 as he recorded 27 points. Considering that the Timberwolves turned things up a notch, Jokic responded accordingly. However, he once again deferred to Murray, who scorched Minnesota with 40 points.
Nikola Jokic taking it easy early on is a great sign for the Nuggets with sterner tests to come.
