Denver Buzzing After Jokic's Remarks: Nuggets Address 'Betrayal' Accusations as Veteran Accepts Bench Role After 1,187 Starts

Pulse Sports Team 09:06 - 29 September 2026

Following Nikola Jokic's comments regarding his commitment to Colorado and an impending $360 million supermax extension, Denver's Media Day at Ball Arena brought even more major headlines. Nuggets executives Jon Wallace and Ben Tenzer broke their silence on the team's controversial offseason moves, while Denver's stars shed light on what really unfolded behind closed doors ahead of the new campaign.

One of the biggest storylines of the offseason revolved around Peyton Watson's departure to the Cleveland Cavaliers on a four-year, $88 million contract. Denver Nuggets executives have now addressed the move for the first time, explaining why they opted not to match the offer and settled for draft compensation instead.

Who Betrayed Whom in Colorado?

"Peyton did tremendous things here, and it was incredible watching his development. However, we were open to a move if the return made sense for us. We received an unprotected 2031 first-round pick and a second-round pick. Due to luxury tax restrictions, taking a player back in the deal would have required us to attach another asset alongside Watson. That is why we prioritized picks," explained Ben Tenzer.

Jon Wallace directly addressed the sensitive topic of whether Watson "betrayed" the Nuggets by choosing not to play in last season's playoffs.

DeMar DeRozan's Major Sacrifice

"No, I don't believe he gave up on the team. It was his personal decision. He was dealing with an injury; we saw how hard he worked in practice trying to get back. You never want to question a player who knows his own body best in that spot. We wish him nothing but the best," Wallace said.

Denver's top offseason acquisition on a veteran's minimum deal, 37-year-old DeMar DeRozan, demonstrated consummate professionalism. The legendary swingman had started an astonishing 1,187 consecutive games, yet in Denver, he is fully prepared to sacrifice and embrace a sixth-man role.

"My mentality is all about winning. I'm here to compete and help this team in any way possible. When you play in this league long enough, you understand every facet of sacrifice. I used to average 39 minutes a night, so playing even a minute less is a sacrifice. I'm not coming in with demands—I'm ready for whatever the team needs to win," DeRozan stated.

Christian Braun announced that the ankle issues that sidelined him for 38 games last season are behind him and that he enters training camp at 100%, though he acknowledged he will need to stay disciplined with his routine throughout the year. Meanwhile, coach David Adelman voiced serious concern over the heavy workload Jamal Murray carried last season against relentless full-court pressure:

Concerns Over Jamal Murray's Workload

"The pressure I put on Jamal was simply too much. Having Aaron Gordon and Tyus Jones on the floor, along with greater playmaking responsibilities for Cam Johnson and Braun, will need to relieve Murray when advancing the ball. The league changes quickly, and we must adapt," Adelman emphasized.

Murray, however, laughed off the coach's remarks and responded in trademark fashion: "I loved that responsibility! That's why we put in the work and that's what we live for. I'm looking forward to every challenge ahead."

Loading discussion…