Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Nuggets Lose to Wolves, Jokic Says No Title Hope

5/2/2026

36 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Jokic Stays

The Denver Nuggets lost 110-98 to Minnesota Timberwolves on May 1, 2026, ending the series 4-2.
Nikola Jokic said team is far from title contention after loss.
Jokic said he wants to stay with Denver, noting his contract has two years and $121.9 million left and that he could sign a $293 million extension this summer.
Injuries to Aaron Gordon and Peyton Watson (hamstring) hurt Denver’s depth while coach David Adelman finished his year.

Summary

Curry Defended

Warriors fans on X sparked debate over adding Nikola Jokic to Stephen Curry’s list.
One user wrote “Never put Jokic in Steph Curry conversations ever again,” expressing backlash.
Supporters listed Curry’s résumé at 31—three titles, two MVPs, six All-Stars, a 73-9 record and a three-point record.
Bleacher Report’s Sean Jordan said Curry’s three championships keep him ahead, noting BetMGM that Jokic has never beaten a playoff team over 50 wins.

Summary

Nuggets Reshape

Jonas Valanciunas’ $10 million contract will likely be removed as he moves to the EuroLeague.
The Nuggets sit near the second-apron limit, leaving them with minimal cap space this summer.
Restricted-free agent Peyton Watson is expected to stay, but re-signing him will require negotiations.
To add a guard like Tyus Jones or Dennis Schröder and a wing defender like Gary Payton II, Denver may have to trade or release a beloved player.

History

Historical Context

In 1998 the Chicago Bulls, led by Michael Jordan, defeated the Utah Jazz 4-2 to claim their sixth title, after both clubs posted 62-20 records. The victory marked the end of the Bulls dynasty and sparked a roster overhaul. Today, salary-cap pressures force the Denver Nuggets around Nikola Jokic’s $293 million extension talks to balance star contracts with depth, echoing the post-1998 rebuild challenges faced by Chicago.

1 of 4

Jokic Stays

The Denver Nuggets lost 110-98 to Minnesota Timberwolves on May 1, 2026, ending the series 4-2.
Nikola Jokic said team is far from title contention after loss.
Jokic said he wants to stay with Denver, noting his contract has two years and $121.9 million left and that he could sign a $293 million extension this summer.
Injuries to Aaron Gordon and Peyton Watson (hamstring) hurt Denver’s depth while coach David Adelman finished his year.

1 / 4