Nikola Jokic revealed he shed some weight in response to criticism and jokes about his body. The 6-foot-11 player from the Denver Nuggets, known for not having the typical chiseled NBA physique, seems to have taken steps to change that perception as recent photos online show him looking noticeably thinner compared to his last on-court appearance.
Even Nuggets head coach Mike Malone acknowledged Jokic’s improved physical condition, stating, “I know our guys have been working. Seeing Nikola (Jokic), seeing Jamal (Murray) – these guys have been so committed, so focused, so disciplined in terms of keeping their bodies in shape.”
Malone further mentioned, “I mean, Nikola, before the season was suspended on March 12, had lost close to – I don’t know – 25, 30 pounds maybe. He was just in phenomenal shape. And he’s maintained that, if not improved it. So if there are reports out there of a 6-foot-11 lean, mean fighting machine Serbian walking around, I believe it because I’ve seen it.”
Prior to the season pause, Jokic was averaging 20.2 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 6.9 assists for the Nuggets.
