In the visitor’s locker room at the United Center, Denver Nuggets backup center DeAndre Jordan playfully labeled Nikola Jokić, the reigning NBA Finals MVP, as a “bad guy” from his nearby seat. Jokić, in response, acknowledged that sometimes you have to embrace that role.During the Nuggets’ 114-106 win against the Bulls, Jokić experienced his second ejection in three weeks.
The incident occurred with just over a minute left in the second quarter when he argued a no-call with official Mousa D, resulting in his removal from the game.
After missing a reverse layup with contact from Bulls center Nikola Vučević, Nikola Jokić turned to official Mousa Dagher expressing dissatisfaction during the Bulls’ transition to offense.
Dagher allowed play to continue before assessing Jokić a technical and promptly ejecting him after a stoppage.The crew chief, Mark Lindsay, stated in a post-game interview that Jokić’s language met the criteria for an ejection. According to a league source, Jokić used explicit language, saying, “mother—er, call the f—ng foul.” Jokić himself acknowledged that his choice of language warranted the ejection.
Nikola Jokić acknowledged that sometimes what he says might not merit a technical, stating, “So it is what it is. I crossed the line. But sometimes that word doesn’t cross the line.”Nuggets coach Mike Malone, while surprised by Jokić’s ejection after just one technical foul, emphasized the team’s resilient performance despite being shorthanded. Malone, upon hearing Jokić’s comment, humorously remarked, “I don’t understand the problem because when I grew up that was a term of endearment in my house.”
Nikola Jokić, with four points, nine rebounds, and six assists in 16 minutes, experienced his second ejection in three weeks, but the Nuggets won both games during that span. Jokić humorously suggested that perhaps winning is the key to his ejections.
Despite missing key players like Jamal Murray and dealing with injuries, the Nuggets displayed resilience. Coach Mike Malone, jokingly questioning Jokić’s importance, highlighted the team’s collective effort. Reggie Jackson stepped up with 25 points, while young players like Julian Strawther and Christian Braun made valuable contributions.While fans in Chicago may have felt cheated, Jokić acknowledged the occasional inevitability of ejections.
Malone recognized the need to monitor Jokić’s engagement with officials and expressed a willingness to take technical fouls on behalf of his star to keep him on the court.Overall, Malone emphasized the importance of having Jokić available, acknowledging the need to improve communication with referees and manage frustration to ensure the star player’s continued presence on the court.
Leave a Reply