By John Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Denver Nuggets were eliminated from the NBA Playoffs on Sunday night. After taking out the San Antonio Spurs in seven games, they turned to victims of Game 7 action in the Western Conference Semifinals. A home defeat to the Portland Trail Blazers ended their 2018-19 campaign.
Nikola Jokic posted 29 points with 11/26 from the field, tallied 13 rebounds, two assists and four blocks as well in Game 7. After the contest he pointed out: “I feel sad and disappointed. It was a tough game. We had our chances, they had their chances, but they used them smarter.”
Asked if he gained any motivation, he replied: “Losses are not a motivation for me. I hope we will better next year” and added: “I missed the free throw in fourth overtime at Portland. I feel responsible. I missed a lot of shots I was suppose to make.”
The Joker finished his first NBA Playoffs campaign averaging 24.8 points, 13 boards, 8.9 dimes, 1.2 steals and 0.7 blocks. His European teammate Juan Hernangomez only played five matches notching 0.6 points and 0.6 rebounds per game.