The Nuggets captured their first NBA championship in 2023 on the back of Jokic’s brilliance and a veteran core, but the team’s foundation has eroded amid escalating salaries and talent departures.

Key contributors including Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Bruce Brown exited as Denver scrambled to maintain financial flexibility, leaving the squad exposed during the 2025 playoffs. 

Michael Porter Jr. and Russell Westbrook’s struggles against OKC underscored declining depth, and Denver bowed out before the Finals while their rivals surged ahead. 

Barkley’s Call: Go All-In Before It’s Too Late

Charles Barkley, never shy with criticism, pointedly declared that Denver is “playing catch-up” and may have already missed their window to capitalize on Jokic’s MVP-level output.

Highlighting the loss of bench talent and lack of an All-Star supporting cast, Barkley compared the Nuggets’ approach to historical dynasties like the Celtics and Lakers—franchises relentless in adding reinforcements when chasing rings.

“If you got a chance to win, you better go for it,” Barkley warned, suggesting that Denver’s failure to keep pace with contenders like the Thunder and Rockets could mean missing out on future hardware. 

Pressure to Deliver or Risk a Star’s Departure

Moving into Jokic’s 11th NBA season, Denver has retooled with acquisitions like Cameron Johnson, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Jonas Valanciunas in hopes of regaining its championship edge. 

Yet the team faces mounting pressure in a competitive Western Conference where parity abounds and no squad has repeated as NBA champion in seven years. Barkley’s harsh assessment raises a looming question: If the Nuggets fail to collect another title soon, will Jokic pursue his legacy elsewhere? 

With Jokic’s prime years ticking away and rivals strengthening every offseason, the Nuggets must act decisively or risk watching their generational superstar chase rings in a different jersey.