Nikola Jokic Gives Blunt Two-Word Response To Michael Malone After Nuggets Coach Suggests Resting Against OKC

Nikola Jokic shares hilarious reaction when head coach asked him to bench
Nikola Jokic (Photo by Alonzo Adams/Imagn Images)

Since his arrival in Denver, Nikola Jokic has proven time and again that his commitment to the Nuggets goes far beyond just putting up stellar stats. Even amid ongoing injury struggles, Jokic’s determination to lead his team to success has remained unshakable.

On Monday, the Nuggets secured a 140-127 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder on the road. But it was not without a bit of concern regarding Jokic’s health. Heading into the game, Jokic was dealing with ankle and elbow injuries. Head coach Michael Malone briefly entertained the idea of giving the star player a break.

In a conversation with Malone before the game, the coach suggested that Jokic sit out due to his injuries. But the Serbian star shut down the idea with his characteristic determination, saying, “Hell no.”

While many would have chosen rest, Jokic had another reason for suiting up. According to Nuggets beat reporter Vinny Benedetto, the star center joked that if he had sat out, strength coach Felipe Eichenberger would’ve put him through a workout even tougher than playing 40 minutes on the second night of a back-to-back.

Jokic’s decision to play was backed up by a performance that left little doubt about his importance to the Nuggets. He recorded 35 points, 18 rebounds, and eight assists in the win.

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This win against the Thunder was more than just a victory. It tied the season series between the two teams at two wins apiece and also improved Denver’s record to 42-23.

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Nikola Jokic Makes His MVP Case Clear

Nikola Jokic
Nikola Jokic (Photo by Alonzo Adams/Imagn Images)

Nikola Jokic is once again positioning himself as a top contender for the NBA MVP trophy, and with every game, he proves why he’s a two-time MVP holder. After leading the Nuggets to a win over the Thunder, where he faced off against fellow MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jokic made it clear that he’s not backing down from the race this season.

“This is my third or fourth year in a row, so I really can’t control it. But I think I’m playing the best basketball of my life; if that’s enough, it’s enough,” Jokic said.

Jokic has been on an absolute tear this season, averaging 28.9 points, 13.0 rebounds, and 10.5 assists per game. Gilgeous-Alexander also has a career year with averages of 32.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game. Whether or not Joker ultimately takes home the trophy,  his commitment to playing the best basketball of his life is already paying off for Denver.

Also Read: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Gets Brutally Honest On The Buzz Surrounding The MVP Race With Nikola Jokic After Massive Win Over Nuggets