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[Saba Sports News] Charles Barkley believes the Denver Nuggets were dealt an unfair hand by the NBA’s scheduling in their second-round series against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Nuggets had just over 40 hours to recover from a grueling Game 3 overtime win before tipping off Game 4 at 3:30 p.m. ET on Sunday at Ball Arena. Barkley criticized the quick turnaround, arguing that it disproportionately hurt Denver, especially given Oklahoma City’s superior depth.
“I thought what the NBA did [to the Nuggets] was unfair,” Barkley said. “Making them play late Friday night, then an early afternoon [Sunday] — I truly believe that was unfair.”
Kenny Smith pushed back, noting that both teams had to deal with the same schedule. However, he acknowledged OKC’s depth as a major advantage. “They have more depth … I don’t think it’s fair to blame everything on the Joker. He hasn’t played well, and I think he’s wearing down.”
Nikola Jokic indeed struggled with fatigue, following up an 8-for-25 shooting night in Game 3 by going 7-for-22 in Game 4. While he still managed 27 points and 13 rebounds, his inefficiency contributed to Denver’s 92-87 loss.
The Thunder’s depth was on full display in Game 4, with nine players logging at least 13 minutes.
In contrast, Denver leaned heavily on a short rotation, with Russell Westbrook shouldering big bench minutes.
OKC’s bench outscored Denver’s reserves 35-8 — a stark reminder of the Nuggets’ limited depth, which they tried to address with roster changes just before the postseason.