The Decision Awaits! Adelman on Jokic and His 65th Game: "That Rule is Hanging Over Our Heads"
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The Serbian center missed the game against Oklahoma City.
Other Denver starters were also sidelined… However, Nikola Jokic could face more significant repercussions.
Jokic has currently played 64 games. To qualify for individual awards, he would need to be active for the upcoming game against the Spurs.
Furthermore, he wouldn't just need to be on the roster; he'd have to play at least 20 minutes.
During the post-game press conference following the Thunder match, the primary question for coach Adelman was whether Jokic would play.
“We’ll discuss it tomorrow. He underwent numerous treatments today. Playoff success is paramount. But this rule is now hanging over our heads. We need to make the right decision, to formulate a plan – whether he plays those minutes or if we simply move forward and hope that by summer, they realize exceptions to the rule are necessary. I’ve said it before – if Shai and Nikola play 64 games and aren't in the starting five, then we have a problem. I understand the rule, but… We will talk to Nikola.”
It's worth noting that Denver is guaranteed home-court advantage in the NBA playoffs.
They will enter the postseason from either the third or fourth seed, depending on the outcome of their final game.
NBA Standings:
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