Ask Onix
Jokic ejected after mid-court confrontation
Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic was ejected with 1.3 seconds remaining in Game 4 after shoving Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels, sparking a bench-clearing scuffle. The Timberwolves secured a 112-96 victory, taking a commanding 3-1 lead in their Western Conference first-round playoff series.
The incident
With Minnesota leading by 14 points, McDaniels scored an uncontested layup instead of running down the clock, a move perceived as unsportsmanlike. Jokic, visibly frustrated, charged from mid-court to confront McDaniels, leading to a physical altercation. Both benches emptied, resulting in Jokic and Timberwolves forward Julius Randle being ejected.
McDaniels' controversial play
McDaniels, who was not ejected, later stated he did not hear what Jokic said to him during the confrontation. The 25-year-old has been a polarizing figure in the series, previously labeling the Nuggets as "bad defenders" after Minnesota's Game 2 victory.
"I just seen someone who was big as hell."
Jaden McDaniels, Minnesota Timberwolves forward
Coaches weigh in
Nuggets head coach David Adelman criticized McDaniels' decision to score the layup, calling it outdated conduct.
"The game was over. The game was conceded. In 2026, that stuff just doesn't happen anymore. That's something that happens in the '80s, where teams would continue to score. But that's who he is."
David Adelman, Denver Nuggets coach
Game performance
Despite Jokic's strong individual performance-24 points, 15 rebounds, and nine assists-the Nuggets fell short. Timberwolves guard Ayo Dosunmu led all scorers with a career-high 43 points, propelling Minnesota to their third consecutive win in the series.
What's next
The Timberwolves now stand one victory away from advancing to the second round. Game 5 is scheduled for Thursday in Denver, where the Nuggets will attempt to force a sixth game.
