By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
During the Denver Nuggets offseason, Aaron Gordon reflected on his meticulous preparation, roster changes, and his enduring connection to Serbian superstar Nikola Jokic.
When asked about his summer during a media session on Sunday, the 30-year-old combo forward shared that it was a period of intense focus and personal growth. “It’s been nice,” he said. “Did a lot of soul searching and training. So I got my mind right, my body right. I’m ready to go.”
His rejuvenated mindset comes at a crucial juncture as Denver prepares for a demanding 2026–27 campaign, which tips off with five preseason exhibition games in October before an opening night battle against the Oklahoma City Thunder on October 22.
A major storyline of the summer featured Jokic representing the senior national team of Serbia in the FIBA World Cup 2027 Qualifiers. Given the profound bond the two frontcourt partners share both on and off the court, reporters were eager to know if Gordon had been keeping tabs on the three-time NBA Most Valuable Player. Addressing his communication with the elite center, Gordon noted that he made sure to maintain contact while respecting Jokic’s time with his national squad.
“Yeah, I talked to him a bit,” he explained. “Not much. Checking in, ‘Congrats,’ ‘Keep going,’ ‘Good job’, and other conversations.”
This mutual encouragement highlights the chemistry that defines Denver’s core, a brotherhood famously cemented when Gordon previously traveled to Sombor to celebrate horse racing with the Joker.
As the Nuggets transition from a hectic summer into the NBA Preseason 2026, Gordon’s grounded focus and steady alignment with the franchise cornerstone position the group for another deep championship run.
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