MVP Nikola Jokic called out for not ‘leading’ broken Denver Nuggets in tough times
On the latest episode of the KG Certified podast, former NBA star Kevin Garnett called out Nikola Jokic for Nuggets' leadership struggles.
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Nikola Jokic called out for leadership struggles amidst Denver Nuggets struggles
2023 NBA champions Denver Nuggets are in a precarious spot just 17 games into the season. Sitting at 10-7 and seventh in the Western Conference, critics, including Kevin Garnett, have voiced concerns about the team’s lack of leadership, particularly during tough stretches. With Nikola Jokic leading a depleted squad, Denver’s struggles have brought the two-time MVP’s leadership into sharp focus.
On a recent episode of KG Certified, Garnett left no room for ambiguity when assessing the Nuggets’ chances as title contenders. The Hall of Famer noted the team’s apparent lack of fire, even pointing out that Nikola Jokic doesn’t appear to be stepping up in the way a leader should during adversity.
Denver doesn’t look like they’re at the party. Joker just came back… I don’t see no leaders out there, dog. I see Westbrook might be the only leader that I watch that’s trying to lead.
Kevin Garnett said on the podcast
What’s going on in Colorado? ?
— All the Smoke Productions (@allthesmokeprod) November 29, 2024
Even with Nikola Jokić performing at a MVP-caliber level, the Denver Nuggets have not looked as locked in as recent years.
Head over to the KG Certified YouTube for the full conversation and more. pic.twitter.com/WoquUqJ6Ys
Garnett’s comments almost touch upon the Nuggets’ biggest concern: their depth and chemistry have been significantly impacted since their championship run. Key contributors like Bruce Brown and Jeff Green departed last season, leaving a noticeable gap in the team’s rotation. Add to that the loss of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope this offseason, and it’s clear their supporting cast is not what it once was.
Nikola Jokic, for his part, continues to put up solid numbers. He is averaging close to a triple-double this season. Yet, the Nuggets’ lack of consistent effort and cohesion has been evident. Kevin Garnett’s critique, while harsh, speaks to a reality where Jokic’s dominance on the court hasn’t necessarily translated into inspiring his teammates during these challenging times for the team.
Nuggets HC Michael Malone calls out Nikola Jokic amid leadership issues
Even Nuggets head coach Michael Malone hasn’t held back from addressing the team’s struggles. Following a 145-118 blowout loss to the New York Knicks, Malone expressed frustration over the team’s lack of toughness and leadership. Usually the first to sing Nikola Jokic’s praises, Malone was uncharacteristically blunt about his superstar in his post-game remarks.
We need Nikola Jokic. We need Jamal Murray. I need guys that have been here in that starting lineup to be vocal. Tonight, we got embarrassed… 16 games in, and we’re talking about effort, toughness, and physicality. Leadership would be great, toughness would be great, physicality would be great, and playing like you actually care would be great.
Michael Malone said after the loss
Jokic, who finished the Knicks game with 22 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists but posted a disappointing -20 in plus/minus, didn’t shy away from the criticism. Speaking candidly about the team’s performance, he admitted that his squad failed to show up for the game.
It’s always a good punch in the face just to wake up. We are always down 20 at a half… I don’t know [what’s going on]. We don’t warm up, we don’t wake up, or we just don’t play hard enough. I don’t know what it is, but collectively, we need to do a better job.
Nikola Jokic remarked postgame
Nikola Jokic after the Nuggets' 145-118 loss to the Knicks:
— DNVR Nuggets (@DNVR_Nuggets) November 26, 2024
"It's always good to get punched in the face, just to wake up." pic.twitter.com/jMpXjVxeAv
While the season is still young, the Nuggets’ current trajectory raises questions about their ability to compete against the deeper, more dynamic teams in the Western Conference. For Jokic, the challenge isn’t easy. He has to maintain his MVP-esque performance while also galvanizing a less-than-stellar supporting cast. But that’s just what MVPs have to do, right?
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Armaan Gupta
(324 Articles Published)