The Denver Nuggets suffered a heartbreaking Game 7 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the playoffs, ending their season short of another Western Conference Finals appearance. In a post-game press conference, Nikola Jokic revealed the team’s biggest flaw: a lack of depth. “We definitely need to figure out a way to get more depth,” he said. “Teams with longer rotations and benches are winning.” This is in stark contrast to the Nuggets’ top-heavy lineup, which lacks the luxury of playing nine players deep.
Jokic also acknowledged the fatigue that plagued his team, particularly himself. Playing through a hamstring sprain in Game 7, Aaron Gordon echoed Jokic’s concerns about growing tired from intense playoff games. Despite this, the team faces significant challenges in the offseason, including filling their front office and searching for a new head coach after parting ways with Michael Malone.
For now, Jokic plans to take some time off from basketball and enjoy his break.
Source: https://www.si.com/nba/nikola-jokic-denver-bench-depth-comments