Nikola Jokić Is Embracing the Change
Nikola Jokić arrived at Nuggets training camp with a calm, pragmatic tone that underscored a familiar message: he is committed to Denver even as the franchise enters a new era of personnel and leadership shifts. Jokić downplayed concerns about a sore shooting wrist and emphasized the team’s refreshed energy and intentions heading into the 2025–26 season.
Media Day and Training Camp Notes
On media day Jokić struck a relaxed note while acknowledging the Denver roster’s turnover and coaching changes, calling this period a “new energy, new beginning” for the franchise. He participated in the first day of on-court work and was seen wearing ice on his right wrist, which he described as an intermittent issue rather than a major concern. Teammates and coaches — including new head coach David Adelman — used the early sessions to install updated defensive coverages and to integrate new rotation pieces such as Jonas Valančiūnas into the Jokić-less lineups during practice reps.
Contract Situation and Future in Denver
Jokić confirmed publicly that his plan is to remain a Nugget for the long haul, telling reporters “My plan is to be a Nugget forever” while also explaining he is delaying contract-extension talks for financial reasons. The three-time MVP declined eligibility this offseason for a three-year extension, opting instead to wait until next summer when a longer, more lucrative deal would be available under the salary-cap framework. Nuggets ownership has indicated the organization intends to offer him an extension, and Jokić’s comments were intended to quiet speculation about his future amid offseason turbulence.
Roster Moves That Frame the Change
Denver retooled its supporting cast this offseason to address depth, shooting and defensive needs exposed in last season’s playoff exit. Key moves included trading Michael Porter Jr. in a deal that brought Cam Johnson to Denver, re-signing Bruce Brown, and adding Jonas Valančiūnas to provide post minutes behind Jokić. The front office also added veteran wing shooting and defensive pieces aimed at preserving the core identity built around Jokić and Jamal Murray while reducing minutes burden on the starters across the regular season.
What This Means for the Season Ahead
The combination of Jokić’s public commitment, a refreshed supporting cast, and a new coaching voice gives the Nuggets both continuity at the franchise’s center and a genuine opportunity to improve on last season’s weaknesses. Expect Denver to lean on Jokić’s court vision and elite playmaking while testing whether depth additions can maintain leads when he rests and shore up defensive lapses that appeared in playoff moments.
Quick Take
- Tone: Measured and committed.
- Health: Minor wrist irritation, not a major concern.
- Contract: Waiting for a larger extension window in 2026.
- Roster: More size and shooting added to support Jokić.
Nikola Jokić’s message was simple and decisive: change is coming, but he plans to remain the constant at the center of it.
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