NY Knicks: The Joker comes to Gotham

By Ken Tavarez | Jan 21, 2022

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 04: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets warms up before the game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on December 04, 2021 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

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NY Knicks, Nikola Jokic (Photo by C. Morgan Engel/Getty Images) /

Should Nikola Jokic return to Denver?

The reason is simple, the long-term outlook in Denver is grim.

Last season and this season were both lost when Jamal Murray tore his ACL last April.

As a result, two of Nikola Jokic’s prime seasons will end with early playoff exits.

To make matters worse, the ticking timebomb which is Michael Porter Jr.’s back, just went off, so next season is also at risk.

Both players are signed to long-term contracts that pay each of them over $30M per season.

Murray is signed through 2025, and Porter (MPJ) through 2027.

Even if Murray is able to regain his old form next season, Jokic’s contract year, there is no way he is going to bet on MPJ staying healthy and productive for the next 4 seasons of his rookie extension.

That means Jokic would have to leave Denver if he wants to compete for championships.

When you look at all the destination franchises: Lakers, Clippers, Golden State, New York, Brooklyn, Chicago, Boston, and Miami.

All the West Coast teams and the Brooklyn Nets won’t have the cap space to sign another star.

That then leaves 3 teams, Boston, Chicago, and New York.

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