The way the Denver Nuggets handle center Nikola Jokić could be something that shortens his prime, at least in the eyes of an NBA executive.

ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne reported that others in the NBA are concerned about Jokic’s significant usage and that the team could “run him into the ground” if they continue to operate the same way.

“The only way they can win is if Murray is really good,” says rival director Shelburne. “Joker is the best player in the world, but they are going to run him into the ground if he continues to play so much.”

Jokic has averaged 39.0 minutes per game so far in 2024-2025 and is the key cog of Denver’s playing style. He is averaging 31.5 points, 12.3 rebounds and 9.3 assists in four games this season.

Denver is off to a 2-2 start and is just two seasons removed from an NBA championship. The team reached the Western Conference semifinals during the 2023-2024 season and is considered a prominent contender alongside the likes of Oklahoma City Thunder, Dallas Mavericks and Minnesota Timberwolves.

Still, relying so heavily on Jokić can make the team one-dimensional, and the struggles of guard Jamal Murray and others aren’t helping to ease the pressure on the 29-year-old.