Historically, Only 5 Teams Have Successfully Reversed a 2-Game Deficit
The defending NBA champions, the Denver Nuggets, secured a crucial victory in Game 4 of the second round playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Led by this season’s MVP Nikola Jokic, who scored a team-high 35 points, and Aaron Gordon with an efficient 27 points, the Nuggets won 115-107, leveling the series at 2-2. Looking back at NBA history, only 5 teams have managed to reverse a 2-game deficit in the playoffs after losing both games at home.
A Look at Teams that Overcame a 2-Game Deficit in Playoff History
In NBA history, only 5 teams have successfully advanced in a 7-game series format after losing the first 2 games at home. These include the 2020-21 Los Angeles Clippers, the 2016-17 Boston Celtics, the 2004-05 Dallas Mavericks, the 1993-94 Houston Rockets, and the 1968-69 Los Angeles Lakers.
Rare Occurrences of Overcoming a 0-2 Deficit in NBA Playoffs
Out of 447 instances where a team trailed 0-2 in a series, only 33 times has a team managed to complete the comeback (including 8 instances in 5-game series).
Coach Michael Malone Focused on Game 5
Despite tying the series, Nuggets’ head coach Michael Malone emphasized that there’s nothing to celebrate yet. “Tying the series at 2-2 is not something to celebrate. We need to focus on Game 5, which is crucial for us. We are a championship team, and we will play better in the next game.”
Timberwolves vs. Nuggets: A Close Contest
According to official NBA statistics, the series between the Timberwolves and the Nuggets has been closely contested. The Nuggets have scored a total of 411 points, while the Timberwolves have scored 409 points. With just a 2-point difference, it’s evident that both teams are evenly matched. The outcome of the series may depend on which team’s star players perform better under pressure.
Possibility of a Competitive Series Going to Game 7
With both teams displaying strong performances, it’s likely that the series between the Timberwolves and the Nuggets could go all the way to Game 7 to determine the winner. (Phlwin)