Denver Coach Dissatisfied Despite Dominant Win, Comments on Serbian Star: "He's Just Jokic!" /VIDEO/
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Denver Nuggets assistant coach David Adelman, who stepped in for the suspended Michael Malone, appeared visibly tense during the post-game press conference despite a crucial victory. When questioned about the team's offense, he offered a terse response.
"The offense doesn't matter, alright? It was better than in the first four games," Adelman stated.
"He's been doing it all season!"
Beyond Nikola Jokic's triple-double performance of 27 points, 12 rebounds, and 16 assists, Spencer Jones also played a pivotal role.
He played just like he always does. His made shots certainly helped. He was professional and waited for his opportunity. Some just wait, others seize it. He's been doing that all season. I won't forget his play against Ingram in the preseason and in Toronto, even with minimal minutes.
Adelman praised his team's defensive effort.
"The defense was good, and their turnovers were a huge plus for us. Our transition defense also worked well; everything was pretty solid until the fourth quarter."
He also highlighted the team's 35 assists and effective screening, before outlining the next steps.
"This is a good win, we move on. Tomorrow, we'll sit down and talk with the players."
On McDaniels
Asked if the altercation from the previous game influenced this one, Adelman also commented on McDaniels' outbursts.
I have no idea. Obviously, the guys weren't happy with how the last game ended. These things happen in the playoffs. I don't know why he did it; it's happened to him before. That's his decision, we didn't enjoy it.
He also addressed the potential return of Aaron Gordon for Game 6.
"I hate to sound boring, but I really don't know. It's frustrating, of course, but we have to prepare as if he won't play. If the news is positive, we'll have to adjust our routine and game plan, especially defensively, but offensively as well."
He specifically lauded Cameron Johnson and, naturally, Nikola Jokic.
"Cam was aggressive, and I'm very proud of him. He had a few tough nights, but I drew up plays for him, and he found his opportunities. He was good on the boards and fought to help Nikola against Gobert. And Jokic is Jokic – when he gets annoyed because he thinks he didn't play well, you know he'll have a great game next time out. He had 16 assists, and that's a tough number to reach when teammates aren't hitting shots."
Finally, Adelman reflected on Randle's performance.
"Randle is an All-Star player. Nobody in this room wants to get in his way. That's why he's paid huge money, because he's special. He pushed them. With him, if you give him space, you might as well go home. Cam did a good job fighting to deny him space," David Adelman concluded.
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