Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images

Carmelo Anthony hails Nuggets ‘phenomenal’ ace who couldn’t shine against Timberwolves

Originally posted on HITC | By Aaditya Krishnamurthy | Last updated Oct 28, 2025 10:25 AM ET

Carmelo Anthony was impressed with the Denver Nuggets’ performance, and one player, in particular, stood out to him.

The Denver Nuggets picked up their second win of the season after taking down the Minnesota Timberwolves. That puts them at 2-1 heading into their next game.

Nikola Jokic was at his usual best, recording a triple-double with 26 points, 19 rebounds and 10 assists. Jamal Murray also had a huge night, pouring in 43 points.

On the other hand, Aaron Gordon struggled. The forward managed just nine points on three-for-10 shooting after getting off to a fast start to open the new campaign.

That was not close to matching Gordon’s stunning 50-point outing against the Warriors earlier this week. Still, he has earned praise from one of Denver’s most notable forwards.

Carmelo Anthony impressed by Aaron Gordon’s early season confidence

Anthony was part of NBC’s pre-game coverage before the Nuggets’ game against the Timberwolves.

He had plenty to say about Jokic, but also took a moment to highlight Gordon, praising both his shooting and the confidence No. 32 has been playing with.

“Aaron Gordon is playing phenomenal right now. Early in the season, his first couple of games, he’s shooting the ball well. He’s just playing like he’s been here; he’s won before. His confidence is integral,” said Anthony.

This quote did not age well, as Gordon shot 3-10 from the field for just 9 points. But what should not be forgotten is how incredible the forward has been since joining Denver.

Carmelo Anthony says Nikola Jokic has ‘the best eyes in the NBA’

Anthony’s praise for Gordon followed his comments about Jokic, where he called him “phenomenal” and said he had the best vision in the league.

“He’s very patient. I think he’s connected with his group of guys. The Denver offense understands that everything goes through Joker and his precision.

“He has the best set of eyes, I think, in the NBA right now. What he’s able to do, orchestrating that offense, that delayed system that the Denver Nuggets run… I just love the position that Joker bends on the court.”

Jokic is tipped for another strong season, with many backing him as a frontrunner for what would be his fourth MVP award, especially given how much stronger the Nuggets look this year.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: