Nuggets Coach Criticizes Referees Over Lack of Fouls Called on Jokic’s Behalf…
After the Denver Nuggets fell to the Los Angeles Clippers 111-105 in Game 6, interim head coach David Adelman voiced strong concerns about how referees have been officiating Nikola Jokic. Adelman expressed disbelief at the minimal number of free throws awarded to the three-time MVP despite constant physical contact.
“Jokic gets fouled a ton. It’s hard to understand how he only took two free throws tonight with all the contact happening out there — it’s unbelievable,” said Adelman.
Throughout the game, Jokic endured heavy defensive pressure, often being guarded by smaller players who, according to Adelman, were given free rein. “They put smaller guys on him and let them do whatever they wanted,” he added. “I’m looking forward to Saturday — if that level of physicality is allowed, we’ll respond accordingly in Game 7.”
The issue hasn’t gone unnoticed by Jokic’s teammates. Nuggets forward Peyton Watson highlighted how Jokic routinely shows physical wear and tear during games. “You can see it on his arms — scratches, bruises, everything. He plays a tough, inside game and gets banged up a lot,” Watson said. “It’s tough to spot everything when he’s constantly swarmed, but we trust the officials to call things fairly when it matters.”
Despite the contact, Jokic kept his composure throughout Game 6, not reacting emotionally or drawing a technical foul. Watson noted, “He knows what to expect, and we do too. Now it’s our turn to bring that same level of toughness in Game 7.”
Statistically, Jokic’s free-throw attempts trail behind those of fellow MVP candidates. While he averaged 6.4 attempts per game this season, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Giannis Antetokounmpo averaged 8.8 and 10.6 respectively, raising questions about the consistency of officiating.
With Game 7 looming on Saturday night, the Nuggets are hoping to channel their frustration into a more physical performance on both ends of the court to keep their playoff hopes alive.
