Nikola Jokic failed to achieve a triple-double, while Jamal Murray fell short of scoring 30-plus points.
However, Aaron Gordon stepped up with a remarkable performance, scoring a playoff career-high 27 points and adding seven rebounds and six assists. When Jokic was sidelined with five fouls early in the fourth quarter, the Denver Nuggets faced a critical moment, but they emerged victorious with a 108-95 win against the Miami Heat in Game 4 of the NBA Finals, taking a commanding 3-1 series lead. Gordon’s outstanding contributions reflect the thriving teamwork of the Nuggets, who are currently playing exceptional basketball at a pivotal juncture and are on the brink of securing the franchise’s first NBA championship.
Denver’s head coach, Michael Malone, praised Gordon’s all-around impact, highlighting his offensive prowess, particularly his efficient shooting from beyond the arc. While Jokic and Murray also made significant contributions, with Jokic recording 23 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, three blocks, and three steals, and Murray tallying 15 points, 12 assists, and zero turnovers, it was Gordon’s standout performance that played a pivotal role in Denver’s victory.
Bruce Brown’s 21 points also played a crucial part in the Nuggets’ success, but it was Gordon’s impressive effort throughout his 42 minutes on the court that truly made the difference. With an 11-for-15 shooting performance, including 3-of-4 from three-point range, and solid free-throw shooting, Gordon capitalized on his size advantage against Miami, reminiscent of his impactful performance in Game 1 where he contributed 16 points.