Following their NBA championship win last season, the Denver Nuggets faced elimination in the second round this year at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves. While it was a disappointing outcome for Denver, recent history underscores the immense challenge of reclaiming titles.

Nuggets standout Nikola Jokic, reigning Finals MVP, clinched his third regular season MVP award this year. Despite occasional struggles in Denver’s seven-game series loss to Minnesota, Jokic played a pivotal role in the Nuggets’ comeback from an initial 0-2 deficit to force a decisive seventh game.

After securing the championship last year, Jokic was frequently spotted during the summer engaging in various activities, notably horse racing, one of his primary passions. Following Denver’s playoff exit, Jokic made his first public appearance at a horse race, a scene that quickly went viral on social media after Nuggets reporter Katy Winge shared it on X (formerly Twitter).

Returning to one of his cherished offseason pastimes, Jokic is enjoying his summer as usual. Meanwhile, the Denver front office is anticipated to focus on making adjustments to the roster to bolster the team around Jokic, aiming to maximize their chances of contending for another championship.

Every year with Jokic on their roster presents the Nuggets with an opportunity to vie for the title.