NBA Notes: Nuggets, Nikola Jokic, Pacers, Jahlil Okafor, Reggie Miller

Nikola Jokic turned 30 on Wednesday, and while his Nuggets teammates serenaded him with an off-key rendition of “Happy Birthday,” the three-time NBA MVP appeared almost bashful.

“I don’t like my birthday,” Jokic admitted, reflecting on the inevitability of getting older, via Pat Graham of the Associated Press.

But there’s no denying his continued growth as one of the league’s most dominant players. Coach Michael Malone, who has witnessed Jokic’s evolution from a 20-year-old prospect to NBA champion, emphasized that there’s no limit to his greatness.

“We want to give him room to grow,” Malone said.

Jokic has not only matured as a player but also in life, balancing his family with a burgeoning career. He now has two children, a bronze medal from the 2023 Paris Olympics with Serbia, and a signature shoe launching soon, inspired by the children’s character Peppa Pig.

On the court, he’s expanded his game, hitting a career-high 45% from three-point range.

Despite the accolades, Jokic remains grounded. Malone believes his playing style, based on intelligence and skill rather than athleticism, will allow him to thrive for years.

Jokic’s current season is his best yet, averaging 29.8 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 10.2 assists, along with leading the league in triple-doubles.

As the Nuggets approach the final stretch of the regular season, Jokic’s leadership and commitment remain key to their playoff hopes.

Pacers

Jahlil Okafor made a brief return to the NBA on February 11, playing three minutes for the Pacers in his first action since the 2020-21 season. The 29-year-old center signed a 10-day contract with Indiana after spending time with the team’s G League affiliate.

Okafor, the third overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, had struggled to find a place in the league following his tenure with Detroit.

“It’s been a surreal feeling,” Okafor said in an interview with Dustin Dopirak of the Indianapolis Star. “It’s been a long journey trying to get back… something I’m very appreciative for and something I’ve been able to celebrate with my family.”

Although it’s uncertain whether Okafor will receive another 10-day contract, his enthusiasm for returning to an NBA uniform has caught the attention of Pacers coach Rick Carlisle.

“He’s had a very productive year with the Mad Ants,” Carlisle said. “He gives us insurance at the 5 position. It’s been quite a road getting back to the NBA… He’s just a grateful young man.”

NBA Media

Reggie Miller will serve as NBC Sports’ lead game analyst when the network begins its NBA coverage next season, the network announced. Miller, who has spent two decades as one of TNT Sports’ premier analysts, will call one or more games weekly during the regular season and playoffs.