Nuggets’ David Adelman ‘didn’t like’ Jaden McDaniels’ 1.3 second Game 4 shot before brawl

The Denver Nuggets are fighting for survival, but the one of the biggest talking points from Game 4 had little to do with schemes or shot-making. Instead, it was about respect. In the final seconds of Denver’s 112-96 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, Jaden McDaniels hit a wide open layup with just over two seconds remaining. That act that didn’t sit well with Denver’s acting head coach David Adelman.

“I didn’t like what McDaniels did,” Adelman said postgame. He called it a violation of modern NBA etiquette with the outcome already decided.

That split-second decision by McDaniels ignited a chain reaction. Nikola Jokic, visibly frustrated after a tough shooting night for the team, charged and confronted McDaniels. That triggered a heated exchange that quickly escalated. Julius Randle joined the fray, and both he and Jokic were ultimately ejected with just 1.3 seconds left on the clock.

David Adelman on Jaden McDaniels scoring with 1.3 seconds left:

"That's who he is."pic.twitter.com/4Ra8mGflft

— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) April 26, 2026

For Denver, the moment wasn’t just about a layup. It was about what they perceived as unnecessary disrespect in a conceded game. Adelman even referenced an older era, suggesting such plays belonged in the “1980s,” not today’s league where unwritten rules still quietly govern endgame conduct.

Now down 3-1, the Nuggets must channel that frustration into execution. Their 2026 playoff run has reached a breaking point after three straight losses flipped the series. Despite strong outings from Jokic (24 points, 15 rebounds, 9 assists) and Jamal Murray (30 points) in Game 4, Denver’s offense has stalled. Thats underscored by a dismal 22.0 percent shooting from beyond the arc in Game 4.

Meanwhile, Minnesota continues to surge—even while managing injuries to Anthony Edwards and Donte DiVincenzo. As the series shifts back to Ball Arena for a must-win Game 5, the Nuggets will need more than motivation. They’ll need a response that speaks louder than the controversy.

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