“I was disappointed in how we faced difficulties. I haven’t seen anything like that in nine years since I’ve been here. As things got tougher, we fell apart and allowed referee decisions to affect us,” Malone emphasized.
The Colorado team’s strategist was pleased with how the reigning champions are preparing for what is likely the most important, the third showdown in Minnesota.
“We practiced, it wasn’t a walk in the park. The team spirit and energy were just what I hoped they would be. I reminded them: ‘Guys, we’re world champions. Behave like it and play like it’,” he said.
Considering that Jamal Murray is having problems with his calf, as well as with the opponent, part of Malone’s speech was dedicated to that topic.
“Jamal Murray will respond, I have no doubt about that. His focus and energy were incredible in today’s practice. We worked on some things that could make his time on the court easier,” concluded the Denver Nuggets coach.
The third showdown, where the Minnesota Timberwolves host the defending champions, is scheduled for Friday night into Saturday at 03:30 AM.