Nikola Jokić Paced Himself in Game 1 and Won, Signaling Trouble for NBA Playoffs Field

The Nuggets star's triple-double was just a 'decent game' as Denver's depth proved too much for the Timberwolves

Apr. 19, 2026 at 12:42pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game in motion, with Nikola Jokić as the central figure surrounded by fragmented, overlapping shapes and planes in a vibrant color palette, conveying the intensity and energy of the playoff matchup.Nikola Jokić's ability to win without needing to dominate makes the Nuggets a daunting playoff opponent.Denver Today

Nikola Jokić recorded a triple-double in the Nuggets' Game 1 win over the Timberwolves, but he didn't need to dominate the game like he has in the past. Denver's depth and balanced scoring allowed Jokić to pace himself, conserving energy for the long playoff run ahead. This should scare the rest of the NBA, as Jokić and the Nuggets appear primed for a deep postseason run.

Why it matters

Jokić's ability to win games without needing to put up historic numbers is a scary proposition for the rest of the league. The Nuggets have built a deep, versatile roster that can win even when their superstar isn't at his absolute best, which could give them an advantage in the grueling NBA playoffs.

The details

In Game 1, Jokić had 25 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists, but he didn't need to take over the game. He was content to distribute the ball and let his teammates like Jamaal Murray and Aaron Gordon make plays. Nuggets coach David Adelman was able to go nine players deep, with seven getting significant minutes, showcasing the team's depth. Meanwhile, Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert had a strong defensive game plan to limit Jokić, but Denver still prevailed.

  • The Nuggets won Game 1 of their first-round playoff series against the Timberwolves on Saturday, April 19, 2026.

The players

Nikola Jokić

The three-time NBA MVP for the Denver Nuggets, known for his elite all-around game and ability to dominate games.

Rudy Gobert

The veteran center for the Minnesota Timberwolves, tasked with trying to slow down Jokić in Game 1.

Jamaal Murray

The Nuggets' starting point guard, who scored 30 points in the Game 1 win.

Aaron Gordon

The Nuggets' starting forward, who struggled from 3-point range in Game 1 but is capable of explosive performances.

Jaden McDaniels

The Timberwolves' starting wing, who praised Gobert's defense on Jokić in Game 1.

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What they’re saying

“Rudy did a good job the whole game just guarding and taking the challenge. That's what we need every time we play against Jokić, just Rudy coming to compete. That's the best game we've had from Rudy this year.”

— Jaden McDaniels, Timberwolves Player

“It's really a mental game. As a kid, I dreamed to be in this position, to be facing the best players in the world. … You just prepare as much as you can, and then once you're on the battlefield, it's just about being present. For me, it's giving maximum effort and letting the game take care of itself.”

— Rudy Gobert, Timberwolves Center

What’s next

If the Timberwolves can get a better performance from star wing Anthony Edwards, who is dealing with lingering knee issues, they could push this series to seven games and potentially upset the Nuggets. However, Denver's depth and Jokić's ability to conserve energy make them a formidable opponent for the rest of the NBA playoffs.

The takeaway

Nikola Jokić's ability to win games without needing to dominate is a scary prospect for the rest of the NBA playoffs field. The Nuggets have built a deep, versatile roster that can win even when their superstar isn't at his absolute best, giving them a significant advantage in the grueling postseason.