Barkley voiced his concerns during a TNT broadcast, emphasizing the importance of building a stronger roster around Jokic. “You cannot waste the Joker’s career,” Barkley said. The Denver Nuggets hold an 11-8 record, placing them eighth in the Western Conference. While Nikola Jokic continues to dominate, the team struggles with consistency.
Bench Depth Draws Criticism
Barkley highlighted the loss of key bench players like Bruce Brown and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, calling Denver’s bench “weaker than water.” Shaquille O’Neal agreed, pointing to Jamal Murray’s need for improvement. “Yes, they won a championship, but they just let guys go,” Barkley added, urging the Nuggets to aim for sustained success.
Jokic’s MVP-Caliber Season
Nikola Jokic is putting up staggering numbers this season, averaging 30.1 points, 13.0 rebounds, and 10.4 assists per game. His efficiency is unmatched, with 56.4% shooting from the field and 52.2% from beyond the arc. Barkley believes Jokic has at least five prime years left, urging the Nuggets to capitalize on this window.
Supporting Cast Falls Short
Statistically, Jokic’s teammates lag far behind. Michael Porter Jr. ranks 53rd in league scoring with 18.7 points per game, while Jamal Murray averages 17.7. The disparity in production highlights Denver’s lack of depth, a concern that could hinder their championship aspirations.
Barkley’s Call to Action
Barkley’s message is clear: “Get greedy!” He believes Denver can win multiple titles with Jokic at the helm but must make bold moves to strengthen the roster. As Jokic continues his MVP-caliber campaign, the Nuggets face a critical moment to ensure they don’t waste their superstar’s prime.
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