The Denver Nuggets recently experienced a huge change when they fired head coach Michael Malone just days before the playoffs.
They have fared well in the postseason so far, and Charles Barkley believes that is partly because Nikola Jokic has taken control of his team in a powerful, important way.
“[Nikola Jokic] is coaching right now. He is taking control of that team,” Barkley said, via NBA on TNT. “You’ve seen him be more animated and emotional, it’s all happened in the last month. Joker’s like, ‘This is my team, we’re going to keep winning.’ He’s the one constant, and it’s great to watch.”
"He is taking control of that team" 😤
Joker's leadership in Denver has Chuck impressed pic.twitter.com/Frxni2kZho
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) May 6, 2025
There have been some courtside moments featuring Jokic showing a lot of emotion and drive with his team lately.
He is clearly very committed to making sure his Nuggets do well and is pushing them forward.
Jokic has never been the most talkative or animated NBA player, but he has recently showcased a different side of himself.
His current head coach, David Adleman, is new to the job and has been trying to find his footing during a very tricky and complicated time.
Jokic has stepped up and has taken some of the weight off Adelman’s shoulders.
He knows he’s the Nuggets’ most important player and is taking on the responsibility of being their leader.
It’s about so much more than simply scoring a lot and creating a ton of assists night after night.
Even after multiple seasons and numerous awards, Jokic is showing that he’s still growing as a player and a leader.
He believes in his team and wants to win and will do whatever it takes to get the Nuggets across the finish line.
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