Nikola Jokic Takes Back Seat for Team’s Success

Denver, CO — Nikola Jokic, the reigning NBA Finals MVP, has shifted his focus this season. Recognizing his team’s needs, Jokic is prioritizing his teammates’ scoring over his own, as the Denver Nuggets aim for greater success.

This season, Jokic is averaging just 20.4 points per game, taking only 13.2 field goal attempts. In contrast, guard Jamal Murray has emerged as a key scorer, averaging 26 points on 19 shot attempts during this early stage of the season.

The Nuggets’ bench is also contributing significantly, with players like Tim Hardaway Jr., Bruce Brown, Peyton Watson, and Jonas Valanciunas making early impacts. This collaborative approach is crucial for the team as they work to optimize their play.

The season’s long grind means Jokic will have opportunities to increase his scoring as the games progress. However, for the Nuggets to be successful, they need contributions from various players. Jokic’s temporary backseat could lead to some volatility in the team’s performance during the regular season, but the long-term goal remains clear.

This strategy mirrors the successful approach the Nuggets took during their championship season in 2022-23. In prior seasons, Jokic often carried the scoring load alone, as the team struggled with depth and injuries. This year, a healthier roster gives him the chance to rely on teammates more.

As the season unfolds, the hope is that this balance allows the Nuggets to build momentum without too many losses. By continuing to engage the bench and complementary players, Denver aims to reach its peak performance in time for the playoffs.