Jokic and the NBA Title: there’s one obstacle to overcome
Jokic is dreaming of another championship with the Nuggets, but first there is a problem to solve. And the last few years have proved it
Nikola Jokic knows exactly what it takes to win an NBA championship. He already did it in 2023 with the Denver Nuggets, but getting back to the Finals has become much more complicated since then. And according to the Serbian, before even thinking about their opponents, Denver has to solve a problem that has followed the team for several seasons now: injuries.
Speaking to Complex, Jokic explained what will be most important for the Nuggets during the 2026/27 season.
We definitely have to stay healthy. That’s going to be the biggest key for us. Over the last two or three years, we haven’t been able to do that. It feels like we weren’t healthy when we needed it most
Nikola Jokic
It is hard to argue with him when looking at the last few seasons. After winning the title in 2023, Denver was eliminated in the second round by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2024, again in the second round by OKC in 2025 and then, once again against the Timberwolves, in the first round in 2026.
During that stretch, physical issues involving players such as Aaron Gordon, Michael Porter Jr. and Peyton Watson often complicated the Nuggets’ plans, especially at the most important moments.
Jokic: “There is so much talent in the NBA”
Winning, however, has also become more difficult for another reason: the NBA is more balanced than ever. There have been eight different champions over the last eight years, and according to Jokic, the reason is pretty simple.
I think it just comes down to how much talent we have in the NBA today. There are good teams, teams with unique characteristics, young players and more experienced players who are still able to compete
Nikola Jokic
The Serbian has already shown that he is in great shape even in Preseason, but getting Denver all the way back to the top will require much more than his usual performances.
Jokic can keep putting up incredible numbers, but he cannot win by himself. And after three Playoff runs that ended earlier than expected, the Nuggets’ biggest hope is simply to reach the most important stage of the season with everyone finally available.