The Denver Nuggets were able to secure a win over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 7 to move on to the next round. Head coach Gregg Popovich feels center Nikola Jokic is a major part of the reason why.

Jokic was able to impose his will on the Spurs throughout the series. According to ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk, Popovich had high praise for him afterward:

“He's magnificent. Magnificent,” Popovich said. “I'll just leave it at that.”

There is certainly plenty of truth to Popovich's comments. His stellar performance throughout the 2018-19 NBA season along with Denver's success made him a darkhorse candidate for MVP. He was able to follow it up by leading the Nuggets to a crucial win in Game 7.

Jokic's scoring output somewhat fluctuated in the series against the Spurs. Popovich found a way to limit his production at times. Regardless, he still managed to make his presence felt when Denver needed him most. He finished the series averaging 23.1 points, 9.1 assists, and 12.1 rebounds per game.

The Nuggets are going to need Jokic to be his usual magnificent self if they hope to keep their playoffs hope alive going into the next round. The Portland Trail Blazers are coming off one of the more intriguing showdowns thus far in the postseason. The Blazers have plenty of confidence that momentum is on their side going into the series. Jokic has been otherwise stellar against Portland this season and he will be looking to take advantage of their shorthanded frontcourt once the series begins.