NBA analyst Kevin O'Connor faced intense criticism for suggesting Nikola Jokić should consider leaving the Denver Nuggets. The three-time MVP has repeatedly stated his desire to stay in Denver for his entire career, making the analyst's take highly controversial. The Nuggets are currently on a five-game winning streak, including a 128-118 victory over the San Antonio Spurs on April 13, 2026.
Why is Kevin O'Connor's take causing controversy?
Kevin O'Connor of Yahoo Sports openly advocated for Nikola Jokić to seek a new team. He shared a podcast clip on X where he discussed Jokić's best course of action. O'Connor argued that with the Nuggets' current roster construction, Jokić should at least think about his long-term future.
"It's never a conversation with Jokić. It should be something, I think, on our minds," O'Connor said. "I think it at least should be something on his mind."
This perspective came despite Jokić's clear statements this summer about wanting to sign an extension and play his entire career in Denver. The 31-year-old center is delaying extension talks for financial reasons, not due to any desire to leave.
How did NBA fans and the basketball world react?
The reaction from NBA fans was swift and overwhelmingly negative. Many accused O'Connor of creating unnecessary drama purely for engagement. One user called it "ridiculous ragebait" while another stated, "You people are the worst."
Several fans pointed to Jokić's consistent verbal commitments to Denver. One noted there has never been any back-channel talk of him wanting to go elsewhere. Another simply said, "Cause he says over and over again he'll retire a Nugget? Congrats on your clickbait, I guess."
The criticism focused on what fans see as manufactured controversy. They argue the sports media complex often creates fodder for the attention economy without real reporting.
What is the current state of the Denver Nuggets roster?
Denver's offseason has been viewed by many as underwhelming. They lost veteran sharpshooter Tim Hardaway Jr. In free agency. They also parted with promising young defender Peyton Watson in a sign-and-trade deal that yielded only one first-round pick.
The team added six-time All-Star DeMar DeRozan, a premier midrange scorer. However, DeRozan is 37 years old and has known limitations from three-point range and on defense. Other additions include Tyus Jones, Marvin Bagley III, and Lonnie Walker IV.
This has led to concerns about the roster's athleticism and defensive capabilities. The team's depth is questionable, and they have virtually no financial flexibility moving forward. You can track the team's performance on our [standings](/standings) page.
Where do the Nuggets stand competitively right now?
Despite the roster concerns, Denver still possesses one of the league's most potent one-two punches in Jokić and Jamal Murray. They have a solid veteran supporting cast around them. The team's recent form has been excellent, winning their last five games.
Their last result was a 128-118 win against the San Antonio Spurs on April 13, 2026. They are currently on a 5-game winning run (WWWWW). This strong finish to the season shows the core's ability to compete, even if they are no longer considered top title favorites.
The long-term outlook faces some doubt due to financial constraints. But Jokić's stated commitment provides stability. The debate O'Connor started seems disconnected from the player's own clearly expressed wishes and the team's current winning form.
