Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone addressed the issue of several Nuggets players wearing flip-flops during pregame warm-ups, leading to speculation that the team was being nonchalant. However, it was revealed that there was a mix-up with some players’ insoles in their shoes on the early bus to the arena, causing them to hit the court without their regular sneakers. Despite the equipment mishap, Malone emphasized that he is not an excuse guy and refused to blame the loss on the players not having their shoes for warm-ups.
The Nuggets had a 3-0 lead in the series against the Los Angeles Lakers, but the defending NBA champions were able to keep their season alive with a 119-108 victory in Game 4. Denver has had a tendency to start games slow in the first-round series but has managed to overcome deficits and secure victories. Malone acknowledged that the situation with the shoes was less than ideal but did not believe it was the reason they lost the game. He remains focused on moving forward and hopes that such an equipment mishap does not occur again as they prepare for Game 5 against the Lakers.
Nuggets starting forward Michael Porter Jr. explained that the shoes were loaded onto the last bus, leading to the mix-up that resulted in players having to wear flip-flops during warm-ups. Despite the frustration of not being able to follow their pregame routine, Porter recognized that mistakes happen and emphasized that everyone is human. The incident may have caused a stir, but ultimately, the Nuggets are looking to regroup and come back strong in the next game against the Lakers.
The Game 4 loss marked the first defeat for the Nuggets in the series against the Lakers, who were able to capitalize on Denver’s slow start. LeBron James and the Lakers put on a dominant performance to keep their hopes alive in the playoffs. Despite the setback, Malone remains focused on the next game and hopes to eliminate any distractions or mishaps that could affect the team’s performance. With Game 5 set to take place in Denver, the Nuggets will have home-court advantage and the opportunity to close out the series against the Lakers.
Malone expressed frustration over the situation with the shoes but emphasized that they would not use it as an excuse for their performance in Game 4. As they prepare for the next game, the Nuggets will be looking to make the necessary adjustments and ensure that they are fully prepared. The team will aim to overcome any obstacles and distractions to secure a victory and move on in the playoffs. With the series now at 3-1 in favor of the Nuggets, they will be looking to close it out in Game 5 and advance to the next round against their tough opponents, the Los Angeles Lakers.
