As the Denver Nuggets gathered for their first practice of the new NBA season, attention quickly shifted to Nikola Jokic, who appeared with his right wrist wrapped in ice.

During his press conference, Jokic reassured fans and media that the issue is nothing new, calling it a flare-up of a lingering injury he’s managed for six years.

“No [concern],” Jokic responded when asked about his availability, explaining that the discomfort comes and goes and should not threaten his campaign. His calm demeanor and history of playing through pain underscore why the Nuggets have built so much of their identity around their three-time MVP center.

Denver’s Depth Provides Relief

With Jokic’s recurring wrist and past ankle problems, Denver’s front office spent the offseason bolstering its rotation to ensure the team isn’t overly reliant on its leader’s availability.

The addition of veteran Jonas Valanciunas as Jokic’s backup gives the Nuggets a proven center who can ease Jokic’s workload throughout the regular season. Last year, Denver faltered when forced into a small-ball approach during Jokic’s absence, recording a 2-3 record over a critical five-game stretch.

This time around, with new arrivals like Cam Johnson, Bruce Brown, and Tim Hardaway Jr., the Nuggets appear better prepared for the grind ahead.

Eyes on Team Chemistry and Health

Beyond coping with minor injuries, the Nuggets enter 2025-26 focused on integrating new acquisitions and maintaining the chemistry that fueled their recent championship run.

Jokic’s ability to play through pain has never been in doubt, but the team’s ambitions hinge on managing his workload and keeping their core healthy for the playoffs. Improved depth signals a smarter approach this season, aiming to maximize regular-season consistency without risking Jokic’s long-term health.

The Nuggets’ top priority is simple: ensure Jokic enters the postseason ready to contend, wrist issues and all, while allowing the roster to adapt and evolve for another title challenge.