Fanatics censure Perkins for absurd perspective on Jokic's Game 7 performance in the Nuggets' series
Let's Talk Game 7: Denver Nuggets vs Oklahoma City Thunder
Heat is building as the Denver Nuggets gear up for another Game 7. Following their home win over the LA Clippers in the first round, Nikola Jokic and the gang are ready to conquer on the road against the Oklahoma City Thunder. But Kendrick Perkins, the former NBA player, tossed out a wild statement about Jokic in the media that has fans riled up with less than 36 hours til tip-off.
On NBA Countdown during Game 6 between the Knicks and Celtics, Perkins declared that Jokic wouldn't have relished a Game 7 challenge if it were against him. He asserted that in his prime, he was the best post defender in the league, even getting Kobe's seal of approval [1][2][5].
Fans caught whiff of this audaciousness and immediately took to the comments to voice their disdain. "Insane take," one said, while another remarked, "This guy’s brain must be pickled."
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Meanwhile, after splitting with his pregnant girlfriend [3], Nuggets' star Aaron Gordon's Game 7 status is in doubt. Thunder All-Star Jalen Williams believes his team can stage a comeback, while Jamal Murray made fun of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's shenanigans on the court [4].
Perkins wasn't the worst defender in his time, but locking down Jokic throughout his career isn't something many have managed. Jokic's stats over six Game 7s in his career include a 24.3-point average, 15.5 rebounds, and 7.3 assists. And despite a quiet Game 7 against the Clippers, the three-time MVP has been phenomenal in this series and racked up 29 points in Game 6 [5].
The Thunder need to find a solution to contain Jokic if they wish to advance, but it won't be a walk in the park. If Jokic delivers another outstanding performance, it might be exactly what the Nuggets need to clinch a spot in the next round.
[1] Kendrick Perkins' controversial Nikola Jokic take[2] Perkins' overconfidence regarding his ability to defend Jokic[3] Rudy Gobert's breakup drama[4] Timberwolves' Rudy Gobert breaks up with pregnant GF before Western Conference Finals[5] Nuggets' Jamal Murray mocks Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's flopping[6] Jokic's impressive numbers during Game 7s in his career, including Game 1 against the Clippers
In the upcoming Game 7, the Denver Nuggets, hoping to build on their impressive home win against the LA Clippers, will be playing against the Oklahoma City Thunder in an NBA playoffs basketball game, with Nikola Jokic even more determined following Kendrick Perkins' bold claim that he was the best post defender in the league, a comment that has ignited debates among fans.
The Thunder will need a strategic approach to contain Jokic's dominance, as his stellar performance in Game 7s, including his 29 points in Game 6 against the Clippers, has been a crucial factor in the Nuggets' success in the playoffs. If Jokic delivers another outstanding performance, it could potentially secure the Nuggets a spot in the next round.
