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Denver Trails 3-1; Gobert Limits Jokic, Injuries Mount

4/28/2026

Summary

Jokic Confronts

Denver trails Minnesota 3-1 in the first-round playoffs.
Nikola Jokic averages 25 points, 14.5 rebounds and 7.8 assists but shoots under 40% overall and 18.5% from three.
Rudy Gobert’s defense limited Nikola Jokic, causing Denver to fall 23 points while he was on the floor.
Minnesota plays on despite Anthony Edwards’ knee injury and Donte DiVincenzo’s Achilles tear.
A scuffle broke out after Nikola Jokic confronted Jaden McDaniels following an uncontested basket.

Summary

Jokic Fined

The NBA fined Nikola Jokic $50,000 and Julius Randle $35,000 for the Game 4 scuffle.
The fines avoid suspensions, so both players remain eligible for Game 5.
James Jones announced on April 26 that the league is reviewing the ‘leaving the bench’ rule, now judged by distance and intent, and that no other players left the bench, so no additional suspensions were issued.

History

Historical Context

The NBA’s disciplinary overhaul began after the November 19, 2004 “Malice at the Palace” brawl between the Indiana Pacers and Detroit Pistons, which resulted in 146 suspended games and over $11 million in lost salaries. Commissioner David Stern then tightened bench-leaving rules, a legacy that today sees fines such as Nikola Jokic’s $50,000 and Julius Randle’s $35,000 for on-court altercations.

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Jokic Confronts

Denver trails Minnesota 3-1 in the first-round playoffs.
Nikola Jokic averages 25 points, 14.5 rebounds and 7.8 assists but shoots under 40% overall and 18.5% from three.
Rudy Gobert’s defense limited Nikola Jokic, causing Denver to fall 23 points while he was on the floor.
Minnesota plays on despite Anthony Edwards’ knee injury and Donte DiVincenzo’s Achilles tear.
A scuffle broke out after Nikola Jokic confronted Jaden McDaniels following an uncontested basket.

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