The Denver Nuggets opened their first-round playoff NBA series against the Los Angeles Clippers with a bang, taking Game 1 in an overtime nail-biter, 112–110. It’s a highly anticipated series that lived up to the hype from the jump—and according to reports, Nikola Jokic is setting the tone on and off the court.
Before the postseason tipped off, Jokic addressed his teammates with a pointed and inspiring message. “Everything involving the Nuggets organization starts with Nikola Jokic,” reported Shams Charania on NBA Countdown. “Shortly after the team’s owner informed the players of the dismissal of head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth, I’m told Jokic gathered the group and told them: ‘This season is not over. We still have to get the job done.’”
According to sources close to the team, the reigning MVP has stepped further into a leadership role. “They see a player who is fully comfortable in his voice,” Charania added. “Someone who understands the influence he carries—not just to lead by example but to guide the locker room with conviction.”
Jokic is playing with a chip on his shoulder this postseason. He’s been sharp, efficient, and visibly motivated, especially as several of his teammates continue to find their footing. With Malone’s departure looming large and the franchise in transition, the burden is clearly heavier on Jokic—and he’s embracing it.
Nikola Jokic #15 reacts with head coach Michael Malone of the Denver Nuggets after an injury to his eye during the first half against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on January 25, 2024 in New York City.
The fallout in Denver
The recent changes in the front office and coaching staff came after reported tension between Malone and Booth over roster construction and team direction. Their exit has marked a shift in tone throughout the NBA organization.
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“What’s been described to me is a breath of fresh air—from players to staffers,” Charania noted. “There’s a lot of respect in that room for interim coach David Adelman, and the energy has shifted.”
Adelman’s impact is already being felt. Known for his calm demeanor and ability to connect with players, he’s begun to shape a new culture in Denver—one that seems to empower Jokic even more.
Jokic’s MVP numbers
Jokic heads into the playoffs delivering yet another MVP-level campaign, averaging 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game. With Denver now up 1–0 against a gritty Clippers squad, the Nuggets look poised to make another deep run in the Western Conference—this time with Jokic not just leading on the court, but commanding the narrative off of it.
