Nikola Jokić is off the trading block, according to Nuggets president Josh Kroenke.
The Nuggets finished 54-28, securing the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference, but lost to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round.
What happened?
The Nuggets were plagued by injuries, with Aaron Gordon playing in just 36 regular-season games.
Why it matters for Nikola Jokić
Kroenke stressed that "everything's on the table, outside of trading Nikola," indicating Jokić's importance to the team.
The Nuggets' braintrust acknowledged the need for improvement, with coach David Adelman citing ball-handling and one-on-one defense as areas for growth.
What comes next?
The Nuggets must decide whether to "run it back" or shake up the core, with Jamal Murray and Gordon's futures uncertain.
Peyton Watson's emergence as a creator has made him a key player, but his restricted free agency status poses a challenge for the team's payroll.
Kroenke did not commit to being a luxury-tax or second-apron team next season, leaving the Nuggets' offseason plans unclear.
The team's lack of rhythm "truly showed up when the games mattered in April," according to Kroenke.
Ben Tenzer praised Watson's growth, saying "we hope Peyton is a Nugget for a very long time."
Jonathan Wallace echoed this sentiment, stating that Watson "did his part" and deserves kudos for his development.
The Nuggets' offseason moves will be crucial in determining their success next season, with Nikola Jokić at the forefront.