NBA executive: Nuggets’ Nikola Jokic will be ‘run into the ground’ due to heavy workload | News, results, highlights, statistics and rumors

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 29: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets holds the ball during the game against the Brooklyn Nets on October 29, 2024 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that by downloading and/or using this photograph, he agrees to the terms of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: © 2024 NBAE (Photo by David L. Nemec/NBAE via Getty Images)

David L. Nemec/NBAE via Getty Images

The Denver Nuggets’ moves with center Nikola Jokic may shorten his prime, at least in the eyes of one NBA executive.

Ramona Shelburne ESPN reported that other NBA officials are concerned about Jokic’s active use and that the team could “knock him down” if they continue to do so.

“The only way we can win is if Murray is really good,” said rival executive Shelburne. “Joker is the best player in the world, but they will knock him down if he continues to play so much.”

Jokic is averaging 39.0 minutes per game in 2024-25 and is a key part of Denver’s style of play. He’s averaging 31.5 points, 12.3 rebounds and 9.3 assists in four games this season.

Denver is off to a 2-2 start and is just two seasons away from an NBA championship. The team reached the Western Conference semifinals in the 2023-24 season and is considered a notable contender along with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Dallas Mavericks, Minnesota Timberwolves and others.

However, relying so heavily on Jokic could make the team one-dimensional, and the struggles from guard Jamal Murray and others are not helping to ease the pressure from the 29-year-old.