Denver Nuggets not properly managing ‘best player in the world’ Nikola Jokic, unnamed NBA executives claim

The Denver Nuggets' reliance on Nikola Jokic may lead to burnout and the team's mediocre start to the season has raised concerns.

Denver Nuggets not properly managing ‘best player in the world’ Nikola Jokic, unnamed NBA executives claim

Reigning MVP Nikola Jokic

No matter what side of the spectrum one is on, Nikola Jokic is undoubtedly one of the top players in the NBA. However, some believe that the Denver Nuggets are overworking their superstar, thus setting him up for burnout.

This season, Nikola Jokic is averaging a career-high 30.4 points per game, 19.6 attempts per game, and 39.2 minutes per game. According to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, rival NBA executives believe that this is a heavy workload for him. It also hasn’t helped that Jamal Murray’s struggles have increased the pressure on Jokic.

The only way they’re going to win is if (Jamal Murray) is really good. Joker is the best player in the world, but they’re going to run him into the ground if he keeps playing this much.

Ramona Shelburne said

Despite Jokic’s incredible performance, the Nuggets have been mediocre and are ranked 15th in points per game and 16th in offensive rating. The team’s decision to let go of key players like Bruce Brown and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope has come to bite them.

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Furthermore, the Nuggets’ 2-3 start to the season has raised concerns that this may be the worst year of the Jokic era. To avoid wasting another year of their star player’s prime, the team may need to make significant roster adjustments.

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And with the Joker still just 29 years old and fresh off another MVP season, it’s crucial for the Nuggets to provide him with the support he needs to succeed. The plan behind bringing veteran former MVP Russell Westbrook hasn’t yet hit its realization point either.

Nuggets’ championship window closing fast, according to Michael Porter Jr.

While there are concerns about Jokic being burnt out, the Denver Nuggets are faced with a dire situation. They are not helped by the fact that their championship window is slowly closing and the pressure to win now at an all-time high, according to Nuggets star Michael Porter Jr.

If we don’t win it this year. We all know they might have to break it up.

Michael Porter Jr. told ESPN

It is not a good sign for the fans as the situation has caused tension between the front office and coaching staff, who are at odds over the state of the roster. With Jokic locked in for the foreseeable future, the team may be forced to make drastic changes to surround him with the talent he needs to succeed.

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That talent needs to be top-notch for everything to click. It’s still early days and the Nuggets know what’s at stake and they will hopefully make the right moves as soon as they can.