Denver Nuggets head coach David Adelman says the club is comfortable with Nikola Jokic taking fewer shots and scoring less early in the season, as long as the offense remains diversified.
Through eight games, the two-time MVP is averaging 24.4 points on 15.1 field-goal attempts. Last year he posted a career-best 29.6 points while putting up 19.5 shots. Adelman told reporters he prefers not to “post him up 25 times” unless a game calls for it. “If the game demands it, he will,” the coach said, adding that spreading touches keeps Jokic fresh and teammates engaged.
Cameron Johnson’s shooting slump
Forward Cameron Johnson, obtained from Brooklyn in the offseason, is off to a slow start at 7.5 points per game on 36.2 percent shooting. Guard Jamal Murray said the team remains confident in Johnson’s perimeter touch: “Everybody knows Cam can shoot… he didn’t just lose his arm.” Adelman echoed that sentiment, noting wins matter more than individual numbers.
Hardaway thriving off the bench
After starting regularly for Detroit last year, Tim Hardaway Jr. has become one of Denver’s first reserves. He has reached double figures in five of the first eight contests. Adelman praised Hardaway’s quick release and basketball IQ, calling him “such a weapon” against today’s athletic defenses.
Brown targets postseason impact
Guard Bruce Brown, a key contributor to the Nuggets’ 2023 championship run, said he is focused on replicating his defensive influence when the playoffs arrive. Brown noted that officials often allow established physical defenders more leeway later in the season, citing Oklahoma City’s Lu Dort as an example.
The Nuggets continue their regular-season schedule looking to build on their balanced approach while waiting for Johnson’s shot to fall and Hardaway’s bench production to persist.
Source: Hoops Rumors
