The Denver Nuggets faced two tough matchups without their cornerstone, Nikola Jokic. While they managed an impressive win over the Golden State Warriors, they fell short against the Los Angeles Lakers. Amid this stretch, criticism mounted, with some suggesting Jokic was sitting out for extra rest—a narrative that did not sit well with head coach Michael Malone.
Not only was Jokic absent, but the Nuggets also played without Jamal Murray and Christian Braun. This drew widespread backlash, including from ESPN’s Tim Bontemps, who voiced his disapproval on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “It’s a horrible look for the league. This is why the NBA put in the player participation policy”.
During a press conference ahead of the Lakers game, Malone fired back at the criticism, defending Jokic and providing clarity on his absence. “I think someone said the other night after the Golden State game that what the Denver Nuggets did is a disgrace to the league. I think that’s just a bunch of b—,” Malone told reporters.
“I mean, in the last 10 years, Nikola Jokic has played the second-most games in the NBA. Ten years. And the guys in that top 10, none of them are superstars,” he continued. “So, if Nikola isn’t playing, it’s not because he’s sitting. It’s not because he needs rest. It’s because he’s hurt and he’s trying to play through things that most wouldn’t”.
Malone sets the record straight
Malone didn’t limit his defense to Jokic but extended it to the entire team, emphasizing that when Nuggets players are unavailable, it’s strictly due to injury, not rest.
“We’re at a point right now where we have to do what’s best for not just Nikola but for all our guys as we move forward and try to close out this season,” Malone explained. “We don’t rest guys. If guys miss games, it’s because they’re unable to go out there and perform at the level we need them to perform at. I think that’s really important that everyone knows that”.
When could Jokic return?
Jokic has been dealing with elbow and shoulder issues for several weeks. According to insider Vic Lombardi, Malone revealed that Jamal Murray is closer to returning than Jokic, making it likely that Murray could suit up for Friday’s game against the Blazers.
If Jokic doesn’t return for the Portland matchup, it’s possible fans will see him back in action in the following game against the second-seed Houston Rockets, as the Nuggets look to close the season strong.