The Denver Nuggets may be facing more than a 3-1 series deficit.
With tensions spilling over late in Game 4 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, the focus has shifted to the NBA’s pending ruling — and whether Nikola Jokic could face discipline ahead of a must-win Game 5.
According to ESPN insider Shams Charania, the league has launched an investigation into Saturday night’s altercation, with decisions expected before Monday night’s game in Denver.
“The NBA investigation is underway into the Denver Nuggets-Minnesota Timberwolves scuffle Saturday night, including interviews with involved players and officials and review of the footage, sources tell ESPN. Rulings are expected before Game 5 on Monday night in Denver,” Charania wrote on X.
Nikola Jokic’s Role in Game 4 Altercation Under Review
The incident began with 1.3 seconds remaining in Minnesota’s 112-96 win, when Jaden McDaniels finished an uncontested transition layup despite the outcome already decided.
Jokic, positioned near half court, expecting the clock to expire, reacted immediately. He sprinted toward McDaniels, confronted him and initiated contact, pushing him toward the sideline.
McDaniels responded by grabbing Jokic’s jersey as players from both teams converged near the Timberwolves bench.
“I don’t regret it,” Jokic said postgame. “Because he scored after everybody stopped playing.”
Jokic and Julius Randle were both ejected following review, with Randle entering the scrum and escalating the physical exchange.
NBA ‘Leaving the Bench’ Rule Could Be Decisive
A central focus of the investigation is whether any players violated the NBA’s “leaving the bench” rule.
While the policy has historically led to automatic suspensions, ESPN’s Anthony Slater noted that the league has adjusted its interpretation in recent years — now weighing proximity and intent rather than issuing blanket penalties.
“Of note in investigation: NBA altered leaving the bench rule a few years ago. No longer as strict as Suns ruling 20 years ago. Takes into account distance player traveled and extent in which they entered immediate proximity of altercation,” Slater wrote on X.
That nuance could be critical for Denver.
Forward Aaron Gordon, who was not in the game at the time, moved down the sideline toward the altercation, a detail that could factor into the league’s review.
Nuggets coach David Adelman expressed doubt that suspensions would follow.
“I didn’t like what McDaniels did,” Adelman said. “The game was over… But I don’t think anything rose beyond that.”
Game 5 Stakes Rise With Nuggets Facing Elimination
The timing of the investigation adds another layer of urgency.
The Nuggets, who won the NBA title in 2023, now face elimination after dropping three straight games following a Game 1 victory.
Injuries have complicated matters. Gordon is dealing with a calf issue, while Peyton Watson remains out with a hamstring injury.
Jokic finished Game 4 with 24 points, 15 rebounds and nine assists but struggled late, going scoreless in the fourth quarter while missing all six of his shot attempts.
“Average,” Jokic said when asked about his performance.
Nuggets Face Uncertainty on and off the Court
The series has shifted sharply in Minnesota’s favor, with the Timberwolves using length and defensive pressure to seize control.
Now, Denver’s path forward may hinge not only on adjustments but on availability.
The Nuggets have come back from a 3-1 deficit before.
Whether they can attempt it again may depend on a decision that arrives before Game 5 tips off.
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