The Denver Nuggets' offensive strategy changed significantly from Game 1 to Game 2.
In Game 1, the Nuggets mostly attacked the Minnesota Timberwolves' off-ball defenders (see clips here), and it worked nicely, leading to a 116-105 win. Throughout the season, despite being a top-10 defense overall, it's been clear that the Wolves' off-ball defense has been a weak point.
However, Game 2 was a different story; the Nuggets decided to attack Minnesota in one-on-one settings with Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. This was especially the case in the fourth quarter, Jokic and Murray accounted for more than half of their shots, but they shot just 2-for-12 in the final stanza.
The Wolves deserve a ton of credit for their stellar on-ball defense (especially Gobert guarding Jokic). At the same time, given that attacking the Wolves' one-on-one defense proved to be less effective, the Wolves need to be ready for the Nuggets to start attacking them in more off-ball situations.
The Timberwolves must be ready for the Nuggets to attack them more off the ball
As a team, the Timberwolves' defense is very strong in one-on-one situations. Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle can struggle off the ball, but on the ball, they are rock solid defensively.
In general, the Wolves don't have many clear targets to attack on the ball, something that serves them well in a playoff setting. Regardless, their off-ball defense left much to be desired in the regular season (and in Game 1).
I don't think we should be questioning effort, but it's fair to wonder if the Wolves will be attentive and reactive enough against intricate offensive actions. Ahead of Game 3, the Wolves must be ready for Denver to make this change.
The Nuggets often have success playing through the Jokic-Murray two-man game and depending on their self-creation. Nevertheless, what's always made them dangerous is their complex offensive schemes and the fact that anyone can beat you.
Given that attacking the Wolves off the ball worked in Game 1 and attacking them on the ball didn't work in Game 2, it's fair to expect this to be an adjustment in Game 3 for Denver. The Timberwolves will have to be ready for this change and must remain locked in off the ball.
Now, while the Nuggets weren't pressuring the Wolves off the ball, I'd be remiss not to mention that Minnesota's help defense was stellar in Game 2. Still, the Wolves must be vigilant, watching out for cuts and off screens. Defending this while being ready to help rotate over on the Nuggets, if need be, is challenging.
The playoffs are a chess match; it's all about figuring out your opponent's weaknesses and predicting their next move. Undoubtedly, the Wolves must be prepared for the Nuggets to change up their offensive attack, and it will require them to play better off-ball defense than they have throughout the season.
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