During their single season as teammates with the Denver Nuggets, DeMarcus Cousins revealed that Nikola Jokic seriously considered retiring before committing to a supermax contract. The discussion between the two occurred during the 2021-22 season when Cousins was acquired by Denver from the Milwaukee Bucks and served as Jokic’s backup center.

Cousins played in 31 games that season, averaging 8.9 points and 5.5 rebounds while shooting 45.6% from the field, including 32.4% from three-point range, and 73.6% from the free-throw line. Reflecting on his time with Jokic in a recent podcast episode, Cousins provided a rare glimpse into the mindset of the two-time NBA MVP.

“He’ll let you know off rip, he really don’t give a f*** about this s***. He doesn’t care at all. This is, like, his second or third favorite thing to do, maybe third or fourth. Like, it’s most games where he’s, you know, dropping one, he’s crazy style. He probably doesn’t even want to be there. And that’s the scary part about all of it,”

Cousins said.

Cousins also recalled a private moment where Jokic confided in him about his possible retirement plans.

“Our lockers were next to each other— he said I think I might retire after this contract. I said, ‘Leave 300 million on the table?’ I said, ‘Sign the contract and just get fat at worst, don’t pass up on the 300 million.’” —DeMarcus Cousins, Former Teammate

Jokic’s Performance and Contract Decisions Amid Retirement Speculation

Nikola Jokic ultimately chose to sign the lucrative supermax contract with the Denver Nuggets, confirming that the retirement consideration did not immediately materialize. However, Cousins’ revelation shows that Jokic had genuine doubts about continuing his career.

The Serbian center has continued to establish himself as one of the league’s best players. In the most recent season, Jokic averaged a near triple-double with 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game across 70 appearances. He also contributed 1.8 steals per game while shooting an efficient 57.6% from the field, 41.7% from three-point range, and 80% from the free-throw line.

Jokic’s playoff stats remained strong as he posted averages of 26.2 points, 12.7 rebounds, eight assists, and two steals per game during postseason matchups against the Los Angeles Clippers and Oklahoma City Thunder.

Changes in Denver Nuggets’ Leadership and Roster

This offseason represents a transition period for the Nuggets, marked by the departure of head coach Karl Malone, who was dismissed near the end of the regular season. David Adelman has been promoted to head coach as Denver looks to build on their recent achievements.

The team also made significant moves to strengthen their roster. The most impactful transaction involved trading Michael Porter Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for Cam Johnson. Additionally, Denver signed free agents Tim Hardaway Jr. and Bruce Brown to improve depth and address inconsistency issues within their second unit.

Despite the Nuggets’ strong core and Jokic’s elite play, a lack of bench stability contributed to their second-round playoff exit against the Thunder. These offseason adjustments indicate Denver’s intent to be a formidable Western Conference contender moving forward.

Implications for Jokic and the Nuggets’ Future

DeMarcus Cousins’ disclosure about Jokic’s near-retirement highlights the intense pressures and personal considerations that even top players face. While Jokic chose to extend his career, the possibility of retirement after his current deal remains a topic worth monitoring given the physical demands and his own candid outlook.

With David Adelman assuming the coaching reins and a refreshed roster aiming for greater consistency, the Nuggets are poised to make another strong playoff push. Jokic’s leadership and continued elite performance will be essential for Denver’s aspirations to advance deeper into the postseason.