Jaden McDaniels called out Denver’s defense following Minnesota’s 119-114 playoff victory in Game 2.
The Timberwolves secured a 119-114 playoff win over the Nuggets in Game 2 on Monday night, with forward Jaden McDaniels openly criticizing Denver’s defense. He called out every Nuggets player including stars Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, urging Minnesota to exploit their weaknesses.
McDaniels finished with 14 points and three assists, leading the charge after his team overcame a 19-point deficit to tie the series. Minnesota’s comeback was led by Anthony Edwards, who battled through a sore knee to post 30 points and 10 rebounds.
McDaniels highlighted Denver’s struggles with rim protection, calling them less athletic and poor finishers. The Nuggets’ defensive lapses allowed Minnesota to erase the deficit and force a Game 3 in Minneapolis on Thursday.
Despite strong performances from Jokic (24 points, 15 rebounds) and Murray (30 points), their late struggles sealed the loss. The duo combined to shoot just 2 of 12 in the fourth quarter, totaling four points.
Murray had a chance to send the game to overtime with a three-pointer in the final seconds but opted for a two-point attempt instead, which Edwards admitted he was glad to see. Murray took accountability for the defeat, acknowledging he 'didn’t make enough shots tonight' and pointing to the team’s overall struggles.
He described the game as hard-fought but noted Denver had control without finishing plays. The loss highlighted issues beyond just one player’s performance.
The series now heads to Minnesota tied 1-1, with Game 3 set for Thursday night. Both teams will look to adjust after Denver’s defensive breakdowns and Minnesota’s resilience.