Nikola Jovic Jokes About Friendship With Nuggets’ Jokic Amid Team Rumors

DENVER, Colorado — During a recent interview, Miami Heat forward Nikola Jovic shared insights about his friendship with Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic. Jovic, a Serbian player, playfully mentioned Jokic’s desire for him to join the Nuggets, saying, “He was mad because I signed the extension. He wanted me in Denver.”

Jovic reflected on their bond, highlighting their connection as two of the few Serbian athletes in the NBA. “We talk about a lot of stuff,” he added. “We make sure that we stay in touch and we stick by each other.” This camaraderie has strengthened through their recent experiences with the Serbian national team during the EuroBasket tournament and the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics.

Nikola Jovic, who was drafted 27th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft, has spent all four years of his career with the Heat. He has played 115 games, starting 57, and is currently averaging 8.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.6 assists this season. Jovic’s performance has been steady, but he has faced challenges with injuries recently.

This season marks the final year of his rookie contract. Before the 2025 season began, Jovic agreed to a four-year rookie-scale extension worth $62.4 million to remain with the Heat. This decision disappointed Jokic, as both players had hoped to collaborate in Denver.

As of now, it appears Jovic and Jokic will continue their friendship strictly on a national level, with possible future opportunities for them to reunite as teammates.