Nikola Jokic has by no means chased headlines. He is the form of famous person who’d somewhat experience a horse by Sombor than make a scene at All-Star weekend. However even the quiet ones can find yourself in the midst of the noise.
Coming off one other historic season-29.6 factors, 12.7 rebounds, 10.2 assists per recreation-Jokic as soon as once more reminded the league why he is probably the most distinctive large man in basketball. However after the Nuggets had been bounced from the playoffs by the Thunder, and with the Western Convention arms race heating up, some are beginning to ask: is Denver nonetheless the very best place for the Joker?
Nikola Jokic reappears like a “gangster” at a horse race after his prime horse wins large
That is precisely what Udonis Haslem hinted at on The OG podcast with Mike Miller. The three-time NBA champion did not mince phrases. “They ain’t loading that up,”Haslem stated, referring to Denver’s lack of reinforcements. “Joker, do not signal that extension. Simply wait.”
Haslem’s level? Groups throughout the West are stacking up on bruisers-Zubac, Brook Lopez, John Collins-all designed to put on Jokic down. Haslem likened it to the times when groups loaded as much as take care of Shaq. The message was clear: if the Joker stays in Denver with out backup, the toll may catch up sooner than anticipated.
Might Jokic and Luka Crew Up in Los Angeles? Some within the League Suppose It is Attainable
That leads us to L.A., the place large concepts by no means sleep. With LeBron nearing the ultimate chapter and Luka Doncic already carrying the crown in purple and gold, the Lakers are reportedly plotting one thing large. In keeping with Silver Display & Roll’s Anthony Irwin, their dream state of affairs? Pair Luka with Jokic. Two MVP-caliber Slovenian stars, one Hollywood court docket.
The friendship between the 2 is no secret. Chemistry would not be an issue. What’s an issue? Jokic is below contract by 2027 because of a five-year, $270 million deal signed in 2022. However contracts do not all the time imply ceaselessly in right this moment’s NBA.
Sam Amick of The Athletic says there’s “no signal” Jokic needs out. He is loyal, grounded, and infrequently pushed by hype. Nonetheless, Haslem’s warning lands with weight. As a result of when somebody like him speaks, it is not simply barbershop talk-it’s battle-tested recommendation from somebody who’s seen dynasties rise and fall.
Denver nonetheless looks like residence. But when the league retains shifting, and if the Lakers begin knocking, Jokic might have to decide on between consolation and chasing one thing greater.
