The headlines on the Jokic brothers are poles apart. The NBA one, who we recognize better, seems pumped for the upcoming season. Joker even joked about needing to “save” Bruce Brown’s career, again. The Denver bunch seems happy, unlike a few strays still searching for a direction in Milwaukee… Anyway, Nikola’s brother, Strahinja, and the legal matter stemming from a fight that occurred a year ago have finally made some headway. Before we address that, though, let’s explore the Nuggets ace’s current to-do list.

“Get in shape, probably, playing-wise. But I play for the national team, so I think I’m good on that thing. Just get used to playing with the new guys, you know. New system, new schemes,” Nikola Jokic revealed, outlining a simple blueprint. The focus is clear: to integrate seamlessly into the Nuggets’ growing roster and recalibrate after a season of grueling minutes. However, the ongoing offseason was never just about the hoop for him.

Nearly 500 days after a viral video showcased his brother, Strahinja, shockingly involved in a brawl at Ball Arena, he pled guilty to one count of trespassing and one count of disorderly conduct. A judge sentenced him to 12 months of supervised probation, clarifying that he’d avoid jail time now. However, any violation of his probation could result in more severe consequences.

Nicholas Meyer, the other party, claims lasting fear and trauma, while Strahinja’s attorney told the court that Meyer was bullying an elderly fan. The incident, though, is one in a string of legal troubles the elder Jokic brother has faced over the years. Naturally, it also intersects with the spotlight that Joker occupies in the NBA. Nikola, however, remains pragmatic, compartmentalizing personal and professional priorities.

For Nikola Jokic, EuroBasket offered both high stakes and lessons. Serbia were clear favorites, only to be stopped in the Round of 16 by Finland! Despite a 33-point game for Jokic, they still fell short. It highlighted how much the margin of error has tightened for teams leaning heavily on one superstar. 

And even after a disappointing international campaign, Nikola Jokic is mapping out his priorities. The Nuggets didn’t sit still this offseason. They added veteran guard Tim Hardaway Jr., bringing experience and shooting depth to the backcourt. Center Jonas Valanciunas arrived as both a backup and occasional frontcourt partner for Nikola Jokic. DaRon Holmes returns from a torn right Achilles tendon that ended his rookie season.

“Forever” Nugget, Nikola Jokic sees a long-term future in Denver

The Nuggets are hoping to balance experience and Jokic’s unique playmaking in the paint. Adjusting to faster defensive schemes, preparing for younger, quicker opponents, and maintaining endurance through playoff stretches are all part of a precise plan.

Jokic’s 2024–25 season highlighted both his strengths and the subtle signs of wear and tear from carrying a team’s offensive load as he averaged 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists on 57.6% shooting in 36.7 minutes.

Contractually, the Serb remains in pole position, entering Year 3 of his five-year $276 million max extension. He bypassed a significant opportunity to ink a four-year $212 million deal this summer, while knowing that he could sign an extension mapping the same duration for $293 million.

“I mean, I don’t think about it,” Nikola Jokic said. “I think those contract extensions come as a reward, as something that is natural to the sport. Especially in today’s NBA how you see how the salary cap is growing and everything.”

At 30, Jokic is at the prime of his career, and he remains the x-factor for the Nuggets. He did clarify his “plan is to be a Nugget forever.” His casually being able to put 35 points on any given night, now, with ample playmaking and role-player support around him, puts the Denver side up there in the West, raring to go well past the Conference semifinals this time.