Timberwolves’ Rudy Gobert makes ‘lucky’ confession after shutting down Nikola Jokic in Game 2

The Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves are engaged in a high-stakes playoff battle, with Game 2 providing a memorable moment that will be discussed for the rest of the postseason. Although the Nuggets lost 119-114, tying the series at 1-1, Nikola Jokic showcased his MVP status by emphatically posterizing Rudy Gobert late in the fourth quarter.

With ferocity, Jokic attacked the rim, rising over Gobert, known as the “Stifle Tower,” to deliver a massive slam that nearly brought the house down at Ball Arena.

Despite his individual highlight, the Timberwolves’ defensive efforts ultimately secured their victory.

The narrative following the game focused on the defensive masterclass displayed by Gobert.

According to Bennett Durando on X, the Timberwolves center humbly discussed his one-on-one defensive possessions against Jokic in the post, stating, “I was lucky. A top-three defender cannot do that, so I was lucky.”

Nevertheless, Nate Duncan reported on X that when Gobert was on the floor, Jokic was limited to just 1-8 shooting for 4 points over twenty minutes, with zero offensive rebounds.

The Athletic noted Jokic’s acknowledgment of Gobert’s skill, citing him as saying, “He’s making me take tough shots. He’s big, long, he can reach the ball from any angle or position. He’s a really good defensive player.”

The publication also noted the chaotic nature of the match, which began with the Timberwolves experiencing a 12-minute lapse in the first quarter.

Minnesota shot only 33 percent from the field and allowed the Nuggets to convert three straight fouls on three-pointers into four-point plays.

Even when the Wolves fell behind by 19 early in the second quarter due to a chaotic offensive foul by Bones Hyland, Gobert’s presence remained a constant defensive force.

This victory came in response to the announcement that Victor Wembanyama won the 2026 Defensive Player of the Year award.

Timberwolves coach Chris Finch capitalized on the moment to address the years of disrespect shown toward Gobert, emphasizing that although Jokic still managed to score 24 points and grab 15 rebounds, Gobert’s defense forced him into an 8-20 shooting night, underscoring his elite value to the team.

The post Timberwolves’ Rudy Gobert makes ‘lucky’ confession after shutting down Nikola Jokic in Game 2 appeared first on ClutchPoints.