West semis preview, hope for the Wolves, team-building lessons & changes coming to Denver with Adam Mares
TL;DR
Kevin O'Connor and Adam Mares analyze the Denver Nuggets' unexpected playoff exit and discuss the future of the team. They also preview the Western Conference semifinals featuring the Timberwolves, Spurs, Lakers, and Thunder.
Key points
- Denver Nuggets faced a surprising first round defeat
- Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray's performances questioned
- Upcoming Western Conference semifinals matchups previewed
- Focus on future changes for the Denver Nuggets
- Discussion on Houston Rockets' next steps
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Kevin O'Connor is joined by DNVR’s Adam Mares to dissect the Denver Nuggets’ shocking first round defeat to the depleted Minnesota Timberwolves. Is Nikola Jokic or Jamal Murray to blame for the loss?
The duo also asks what’s next for the Houston Rockets after losing to the Los Angeles Lakers and previews the upcoming Western Conference semifinals matchups: Spurs vs. Timberwolves and Lakers vs. Thunder.
(0:40) What’s next for Denver?
(24:05) Wolves vs. Spurs series preview
(31:30) What’s next for Houston?
(37:33) What Playoffs teach about NBA Draft priorities
(46:28) Lakers vs. OKC series preview
(49:49) Mavericks hire Masai Ujiri
Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic, left, works around Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert (27) during the first half of Game 6 of a first-round NBA basketball playoffs series, Thursday, April 30, 2026, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Matt Krohn)
(Matt Krohn)
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Q&A
What caused the Denver Nuggets' first round playoff loss?
The loss was attributed to the performance of key players like Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, though specific blame is debated.
What are the upcoming matchups in the Western Conference semifinals?
The upcoming matchups include the Spurs vs. Timberwolves and the Lakers vs. Thunder.
What changes are expected for the Denver Nuggets after their playoff defeat?
The discussion includes potential team-building lessons and changes that may be implemented following their disappointing exit.
