NBA Icon Criticizes Denver Nuggets for Squandering Nikola Jokic’s Prime Years
The Denver Nuggets, crowned NBA Champions in 2023, found themselves back under the spotlight—but not for their on-court brilliance. Instead, Hall of Famer Charles Barkley publicly questioned whether the franchise is making the most of Nikola Jokic’s prime seasons. As the window of championship contention narrows, Barkley’s critiques tap into a conversation echoing across the NBA landscape.
The Rise—and Recent Stumble—of the Nuggets
When Denver lifted the Larry O’Brien trophy in 2023, it seemed they had found the perfect formula: Jokic, a three-time MVP regarded by many as one of the game’s best big men ever, surrounded by a capable core including veterans like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Aaron Gordon, with key contributions off the bench from Christian Braun and Bruce Brown. But as contracts swelled and financial pressures mounted, the Nuggets lost valuable depth and failed to adequately replace it.
This loss of supporting talent became glaringly evident during the 2025 NBA playoffs. The Nuggets, despite pushing the talented Oklahoma City Thunder to seven games in the Conference Semifinals, were ultimately outlasted. Michael Porter Jr. and Russell Westbrook struggled to leave an impact while Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vaulted his team to the title—adding another name to an increasingly diverse list of league champions: 7 different winners in as many years.
For a breakdown of offseason moves in the West, check out this comprehensive analysis.
Barkley’s Candid Assessment
Never one to mince words, Charles Barkley didn’t hold back: “The problem they have now is that they’re playing catch-up,” Barkley said in a recent interview. “And I always tell people this: You never catch up. It might be too late because they’re not head and shoulders, the best starting five. They got rid of their two best players off the bench when they won the championship.”
Barkley highlighted how historical powerhouses like the Celtics and Lakers continually added key pieces around their superstars, rather than standing pat after success. “You can never stand pat when you win,” he noted. “The Celtics, they brought in Bill Walton one year. The Lakers bring in Mychal Thompson… That’s what made the Celtics and Lakers the best franchises in NBA history.”
Diverse Perspectives on Denver’s Outlook
Not everyone agrees with Barkley’s assessment. Some analysts point to Denver’s new rotation—which now includes Cameron Johnson and Jonas Valanciunas next to Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon—as evidence they’re boldly retooling. Others question whether these moves are enough in a Western Conference loaded with rising young teams. Several experts highlight that franchises like the Thunder and Houston Rockets have a wealth of youth and flexibility Denver currently lacks. For more on the Western Conference landscape, see this deep dive.
Some fans, referencing the rapid turnover of NBA champions, see Denver’s approach as measured—they’re aiming for sustained relevance rather than wild swings that jeopardize long-term stability. Others echo Barkley’s impatience, worried that every year wasted in Jokic’s prime is a missed opportunity.
What Does the Future Hold?
Jokic, entering his 11th NBA season with just one championship to his name, remains the heart of Denver’s hopes. Barkley’s challenge is clear—the Nuggets need to act sooner rather than later or risk seeing Jokic pursue titles elsewhere. With the league ultra-competitive and unpredictable, the pressure is on. For bold predictions on next season’s contenders, head over to this preview.
Whether the Nuggets can give their MVP the supporting cast he needs—or whether he’ll find greater success elsewhere—remains the defining question for this franchise and its passionate fanbase.
Explore related articles about international stars, the upcoming EuroBasket 2025, and more NBA offseason news at ATB Network’s EuroBasket preview and the latest offseason recap.
Source: www.si.com