Nikola Jokic is a significant presence for the Denver Nuggets, and there is no doubt about it. Even though he plays incredibly well, the team has not returned to the finals. However, with another promising playoff run cut short, the question arises whether Jokic’s dedication and the Nuggets’ current situation align with his championship aspirations. While his loyalty is evident, waiting for another championship win brings doubt. Maybe the team needs to do more to help him.
Since the 2023 title, Denver has lost back-to-back postseasons without reaching the finals. The formidable depth is gone. Kentavious Caldwell-Poe, Bruce Brown, and Jeff Green have all departed. The players who replaced them are not as good or don’t play much. This indicates that the burden on Jokic has grown heavier.
Nikola Jokic Keeps Delivering, Although Denver Nuggets’ Support System Is Crushing
Jokic is still the best player in the league, scoring an average of 31.5 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 9.3 assists early this season. He is carrying the Nuggets into the playoffs, but the other players on the team are not playing well enough.
Michael Porter Jr. scored under 10 points per game in the 2024 postseason. Jamal Murray was hurt and not playing his best. The coaches relied too much on Jokic and the other main guys instead of giving younger players a chance in essential moments.
Things are tough for the Nuggets. Behind the scenes, tension has grown between head Coach Michael Malone and the front office. According to ESPN, Malone is not happy with how the team is playing and misses the older, experienced players who left. Meanwhile, the General Manager, Calvin Booth, thinks the younger players will get better over time.
“I’m just trying to play basketball, and I’m happy if we have a chance every year,” Jokic said, deflecting when asked about roster construction. But he is not indifferent. His teammate knows he cares much about winning, even if he doesn’t show it. “He cares more than anybody, literally more than anybody,” Christian Barun told ESPN.
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Jokic is 30 now and has been consistent for four years. The Nuggets only have one championship during that time. If the team owners don’t spend more money to get better players now, they might waste the best years of Jokic’s career.
Also Read: Nikola Jokic Embraces Offseason With Blunt Message After Crushing Elimination
