Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic once again demonstrated why he remains one of the most versatile and impactful players in the NBA. In Sunday’s preseason matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers, Jokic showcased his all-around skills despite logging just 22 minutes on the court. He finished the game with 12 points on 6-of-9 shooting, nine rebounds, six assists, one steal, and one block, nearly reaching a triple-double even with his reduced playing time. This performance highlighted not only his skill but also his ability to impact a game in limited minutes, an important factor for the Nuggets as they manage his workload heading into the regular season.
Jokic’s limited minutes in the preseason are part of a broader strategy by the Nuggets to keep him fresh for the long season ahead. Last season, Jokic averaged a career-high 36.7 minutes per game, a workload that took a significant toll on the team’s MVP candidate. This year, the presence of a strong backup in Jonas Valanciunas provides the Nuggets with the flexibility to reduce Jokic’s minutes without compromising team performance. Even with a slight reduction in playing time to the mid-30s range, Jokic’s influence on the game remains profound. His ability to score, rebound, and create opportunities for teammates makes him a consistent triple-double threat and an invaluable asset for Denver.
In the preseason game against the Clippers, Jokic displayed his trademark vision and basketball IQ. Every possession he was involved in seemed to flow smoothly, whether it was a well-timed pass to an open teammate, a quick move to the basket, or a defensive rotation that resulted in a block or steal. His six assists underscored his role as a facilitator, capable of controlling the pace and direction of the offense, while his nine rebounds showed his continued presence on the glass. Even in limited minutes, Jokic’s ability to contribute across multiple facets of the game demonstrates why he remains a central figure in Denver’s strategy and why opponents must account for him on every possession.
Jokic’s performance also reinforces his status as a top fantasy asset. His consistent contributions in points, rebounds, and assists make him one of the most reliable players in any fantasy basketball format. His ability to flirt with triple-doubles on a nightly basis, combined with his efficiency, ensures that he remains a highly coveted player for both fans and fantasy managers alike. Even in preseason action where rotations are shorter and minutes are managed, Jokic shows the same level of skill and awareness that has made him a perennial MVP contender.
The Nuggets’ approach to managing Jokic’s minutes is both strategic and forward-thinking. By allowing Jonas Valanciunas to handle extended stretches, Denver ensures that Jokic remains fresh while still maintaining offensive and defensive efficiency. This approach not only protects Jokic from potential injuries but also allows other players on the roster to gain confidence and rhythm in meaningful game situations. It is a delicate balance, but the Nuggets have the personnel and coaching foresight to execute it effectively.
Sunday’s performance also serves as a reminder of Jokic’s unique value to the team. Few players in the league can match his combination of size, skill, and basketball intelligence. He can score inside and outside, facilitate for teammates, and anchor the defense, all while remaining deceptively agile for a player of his stature. The Nuggets’ offense often runs through Jokic, and even in limited minutes, he is able to dictate the flow of the game, making the team’s attack far more efficient and dynamic.
As the regular season approaches, Denver can be confident that Jokic will remain a dominant force, capable of producing triple-doubles and controlling games even if his minutes are slightly reduced. His performance against the Clippers serves as a clear indication that the Nuggets’ strategy of managing his workload will allow him to maintain peak performance while also keeping him fresh for the challenges of the 2025-26 season.
Nikola Jokic’s ability to impact the game in all areas, even with fewer minutes, ensures that Denver continues to be one of the most dangerous teams in the league. His combination of scoring, rebounding, playmaking, and leadership makes him a cornerstone for the Nuggets, and his continued excellence sets the tone for the entire team. Jokic remains not only a perennial MVP candidate but also a key figure in Denver’s ambitions for the season and beyond.
