The Zach Lowe Show How Will the Nuggets Survive Without Nikola Jokic?
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Jan 1, 2026 
Adam Mares, a Denver Nuggets reporter with deep insights, discusses the challenges ahead for the team without Nikola Jokic, including win projections and roster depth concerns. Mo Dakhil, an NBA analyst, joins to explore the Spurs' young talents like Victor Wembanyama and their playoff potential. The conversation touches on the implications of the 65-game rule on postseason awards and draft strategies for teams like the Jazz, while also navigating the Eastern Conference landscape and the Lakers' struggles on offense.
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Nuggets' Seed Is Temporary; Burnout Isn't
- The Nuggets will likely slide in the standings without Nikola Jokic but should rebound when healthy.
- Jamal Murray burnout and cumulative injuries are the bigger playoff-era worry than seeding, per Adam Mares and Zach Lowe.
Fix 65-Game Rule In Offseason
- Revisit the 65-game rule in the offseason rather than midseason to avoid optics of changing rules for one player.
- Allow voters discretion for All-NBA at lower tiers so clear performers like Jokic aren't excluded on technicalities.
Peyton Watson Is Denver's Athletic Edge
- Peyton Watson's athleticism gives Denver a distinct playoff-type dynamic around Jokic.
- Denver must decide minutes allocation when Christian Brown returns and may struggle to retain Watson in free agency.