DENVER, CO — In a jaw-dropping twist that has blindsided the basketball world, Denver Nuggets superstar and reigning Finals MVP Nikola Jokic has reportedly requested an indefinite leave of absence from the team, citing “personal reasons,” just days before the postseason.
Sources close to the organization say the request came suddenly and without warning, catching coaches, teammates, and even front office executives completely off guard. One insider revealed that Jokic appeared visibly emotional following a private meeting with team management earlier this week — a meeting the organization has refused to comment on.
The Denver Nuggets released a short, cryptic statement Thursday morning: “Nikola Jokic is currently away from the team due to personal reasons. We support him fully and ask that his privacy be respected.” No further explanation has been given, and his status for the upcoming playoff series remains uncertain.
The timing couldn’t be worse for the Nuggets, who are currently facing heavy competition in a tight Western Conference race. Jokic has been the heartbeat of Denver’s success, averaging 27.9 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 9.8 assists this season. His sudden departure has left fans in disbelief and raised serious questions about the team’s ability to make a deep playoff run.
Social media erupted within minutes of the announcement, with thousands of stunned reactions flooding X (formerly Twitter). “If Jokic is out, our season might be over,” one devastated fan posted. Another asked, “What could possibly be going on behind the scenes that’s this serious?”
Speculation is already running wild, with some reporters citing unconfirmed rumors of a family emergency, while others suggest internal friction between Jokic and Nuggets leadership may be to blame. Neither theory has been substantiated.
Regardless of the cause, the loss of Jokic — even temporarily — could be catastrophic for Denver’s title hopes. As the team scrambles to regroup, fans are left waiting for answers… and praying for a miracle.