By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Denver Nuggets open the 2026–27 NBA Regular Season against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center on Thursday.
After Wednesday’s practice, Nikola Jokic discussed the matchup and noted that it offers a good baseline to see where the roster stands. Following a long offseason of hard work, the Serbian superstar explained that his teammates are refreshed and eager to get the real thing started.
When asked about pre-game jitters, the Joker admitted he always feels anxious before taking the floor. To him, that tension is normal. “I think that’s why I’m playing this sport, because of that,” he explained.
Jokic also opened up about a personal reunion with Thunder guard Nikola Topic. The young Serbian has endured a brutal stretch of medical setbacks, including a torn ACL and a battle with cancer, and is currently sidelined after back surgery. “We’re going to have dinner. We’re going to probably watch some games, have some fun, so I’m not going to feel nervous,” said the former champion.
The media session also shifted to Alpha Diallo. The 29-year-old rookie signed with the franchise after winning the EuroLeague Best Defender award with AS Monaco. Jokic praised his athleticism and physical style. “He’s good. He’s really athletic. He really can beat people to the spot,” he described his side’s newest defensive weapon. “He knows how to play a little bit dirty, too, so he has a little bit of everything.”
Reflecting on his spectacular passes in the Preseason 2026, the big remained indifferent. “It just comes,” he insisted. “Sometimes lucky, sometimes situation, sometimes it just happens.”
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