Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver PostNikola Jokic has produced solid numbers against the Minnesota Timberwolves, yet his overall impact has fallen below the standard typically associated with him.Many observers have pointed to Rudy Gobert as a key factor, with the French centre’s defensive presence repeatedly disrupting Jokic’s rhythm throughout the series.That context has grown more significant after Denver’s third straight defeat, a 112-96 loss that leaves the Nuggets trailing 3-1 and searching for answers.Shaquille O’Neal’s stance questioned again after Nikola Jokic’s strugglesPhoto by Emilee Chinn – FIFA/FIFA via Getty ImagesShaquille O’Neal had already made his position clear on Inside the NBA before Game 4, dismissing the idea that Gobert was responsible for Jokic’s dip in efficiency.The Lakers legend said: “When you’re a great player like Joker, we don’t think people are stopping us. We are just off.
We are just having a bad game. When you’re a guy like Joker, you’re just missing shots. I’m not going to sit up here and say Rudy Gobert is shutting him down, I’m never going to say that.”However, the latest game added weight to the opposing argument, as Gobert once again delivered a disciplined defensive performance.Jokic shot just 36% from the field on 22 attempts in the Game 4 defeat, marking his third consecutive outing with 40% or less in terms of shooting efficiency.That stands in stark contrast to his 56.9% field goal average during the regular season, reinforcing the idea that his struggles are not simply random variance.The ongoing trend has intensified debate around O’Neal’s comments, with Gobert’s influence becoming harder to dismiss.Nikola Jokic acknowledges Rudy Gobert’s defensive impactJokic offered a more balanced assessment when reflecting on his own performances after the game.While describing his series level as average, he pointed to multiple factors behind the dip in production.“Like I said, it is a little bit of everything.
I’m not shooting the ball really well, especially from the 3. Rudy is doing a good job with being physical, testing the officials, contesting shots. He’s a really good defender, but not just him. They are big, long, tall,” the Serb stated.His comments highlight both Gobert’s role and the collective defensive effort that has limited Denver’s offensive flow.Read more:Ayo Dosunmu combines four stats vs Nuggets to produce historic NBA firstWhat David Adelman and Nikola Jokic said about Jaden McDaniels layup that sparked brawlShai Gilgeous-Alexander answers Dillon Brooks talk with standout display vs Suns