The Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves played one of the most physical and emotional first-round series of the 2026 NBA Playoffs, but the final image after Game 6 showed respect instead of rivalry.
Minnesota closed out the defending contenders with a 110-98 victory, winning the series 4-2 and sending Denver home earlier than many expected.
While tensions had built throughout the matchup, fans were quick to notice a calm and classy exchange between Nikola Jokic and Jaden McDaniels after the final buzzer.
As players entered the handshake line, Jokic and McDaniels stopped to share words, shake hands, and embrace following a hard-fought series.
The moment quickly went viral online, with many praising both stars for showing sportsmanship after days of intense battles on the court.
Their rivalry had been one of the biggest storylines of the series. McDaniels used his size, length, and physical defense to frustrate Denver’s offense, while Jokic continued to battle through heavy pressure in every game.
Several moments earlier in the series suggested bad blood was building, including heated exchanges and technical fouls.
McDaniels also delivered one of the best performances of his career in the closeout game. He scored 32 points while playing elite perimeter defense, Jamal Murray and energizing Minnesota on both ends of the floor.
Jokic still finished with a strong stat line, posting 28 points and nearly recording a triple-double. However, after the loss, the three-time MVP gave a brutally honest assessment of Denver’s future.
“I mean we just lost in the first round, so I think we are far away,” Jokic said.The statement stunned many fans, showing how disappointed he was with the early exit.
Still, the lasting image from the night may not be the scoreboard or Jokic’s comments. It may be two fierce competitors proving that playoff intensity can still end with respect.