Game Over with Max Kellerman and Rich Paul The Nuggets’ Future Without Jokic, Loving the Game, and a LeBron–Jimmy Butler Trade?
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Dec 31, 2025 The discussion kicks off with Nikola Jokic's injury and its implications for the Nuggets, raising questions about player roles. They delve into athletes like Cam Reddish and Ben Simmons, exploring why some fail to reach their potential. The hosts debate the motivations behind playing at home, weighing the pressures against personal desires. A spicy trade idea surfaces, proposing LeBron James for Jimmy Butler—and the fit implications are intriguing. Plus, they share fun New Year’s resolution ideas, blending humor and self-improvement.
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Short Jokic Absence Forces Team Evaluation
- Nikola Jokic's knee hyperextension briefly looked catastrophic but is now expected to sideline him about four weeks.
- Rich Paul notes this short absence can force the Nuggets to evaluate supporting players and depth more honestly.
Treat Absences As Talent Audits
- Use injuries as an opportunity to test role players and adjust offensive schemes away from a single hub.
- Target high-IQ, low-ego players in drafts who will buy into team roles and coaching.
Role Acceptance Trumps Raw Talent
- Acquiring a former top option who accepts a supporting role creates championship-level culture.
- Paul cites Andre Iguodala and Aaron Gordon as examples of undervalued, culture-building moves.