NBA Legend Slams Jokic, Promises More If Denver Falls: "I'm Shocked!"

Pulse Sports Team 16:24 - 27 April 2026

Despite the Timberwolves playing without Anthony Edwards and Donte DiVincenzo, the Denver Nuggets lost to Minnesota in Game 4 of their first-round NBA playoff series, now standing on the brink of elimination.

Appearing on the "No Fouls Given" podcast, legendary former Boston Celtics player Paul Pierce expressed his profound surprise at the developments in the Denver-Minnesota series.

"I'm shocked. This last game really got to me... Minnesota is without DiVincenzo and Edwards, and Denver still can't beat them. The Nuggets had to win. I understand some other players stepped up, like Gobert playing phenomenal defense, but I stand by my belief that Denver should have advanced to the next round. Man, Minnesota is missing two key players, that's almost 50 points per game..." - Paul Pierce

Following that, Pierce also took aim at Nikola Jokic.

"If Denver loses this series, we'll need to have a more serious discussion about Nikola Jokic. We can't talk about him being the best player if Denver can't eliminate a Minnesota team missing Edwards and DiVincenzo." - Paul Pierce

It's worth remembering that Pierce recently stated Jokic leading the NBA in both assists and rebounds this season was a greater achievement than simply scoring points. However, it seems the Celtics icon might change his tune regarding the Serbian center if the Nuggets are indeed eliminated in the first round of the playoffs.

VIDEO: She's from Denver, loves Jokic, and follows his every move: Tatiana reveals all about Nikola's life in Colorado for Sportal!