Why Nuggets Fans Should Believe Jokić’s ‘Okay’ Prediction

Denver Nuggets fans should take Nikola Jokić's reassurance that the team will be "okay" at face value. The three-time MVP, who recently led Serbia to a victory over France in the FIBA World Cup qualifier, spoke candidly about the team's future following the trade of Peyton Watson to the Cleveland Cavaliers. While acknowledging his sadness over losing Watson's energy and skill, Jokić emphasized that the focus should remain on the present, stating, "I don't think about the season yet; we have to play this, but it's gonna be okay."

Despite losing a key player, Jokić's reputation for straightforwardness and his track record of elevating those around him give credibility to his optimistic outlook. The 2025-26 season, though injury-plagued, resulted in the Nuggets finishing with 54 wins and securing the No. 3 seed. Jokić himself averaged near triple-double numbers, leading the league in both rebounds and assists.

This performance, coupled with his ability to elevate teammates, suggests that even with the departure of Watson, the Nuggets remain competitive.