The Denver Nuggets did exactly what they had to do in Game 1.
They took care of business and were locked in from the start, making a statement to prove that they weren’t going to be scared of the big moment.
Notably, Aaron Gordon was particularly way more aggressive offensively than he usually is.
He hit the ground running in the first quarter and finished with 16 points, six rebounds, one assist, and one block on 70% from the floor.
He was one of the biggest talking points of the game, but when asked about his big performance, he made it clear that he’s only focused on getting the job done, not his numbers or individual game.
Aaron Gordon is focused on the bigger prize 🏆 pic.twitter.com/No5lqph8hs
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) June 2, 2023
Gordon has been a massive factor for the Nuggets since arriving in Mile High, especially on the defensive end of the floor.
But coach Mike Malone may now have to rely more on him offensively, as the Miami Heat simply cannot counter his size, physicality, strength, and athleticism.
The Heat only have Bam Adebayo to handle Gordon and Jokic, and Erik Spoelstra will obviously try and keep Jokic in check and allow Gordon to take as many shots as he can handle.
That’s why the former Orlando Magic PF needs to be at his best and 100% aggressive to make the most of those mismatches and become his team’s X-factor.
The Nuggets are just three games away from making history and winning their very first championship, and that’s all that matters right now, not the individual glory or praise.
NEXT:
Mike Malone Reveals A Message He Had For Team In Game 1