Denver Nuggets big man Nikola Jokic played Friday night without tape on his right wrist, though the lingering discomfort continues to bother him, Bennett Durando of The Denver Post notes.
The Nuggets star revealed that wrist pain has been an ongoing issue for several years, estimating that he has managed the problem for roughly six seasons, with symptoms resurfacing shortly before the All-Star break.
Despite the irritation, Jokic still delivered a dominant performance, finishing with 32 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists.
He helped Denver seize control early by scoring 19 points in the opening quarter as the team built a decisive lead.
Jokic explained that taping the wrist has not been an effective solution, as it interferes with his feel for the ball during play.
“When I tape it, I don’t feel it, and I don’t feel the ball. So that didn’t work really well for me,” the player said. “It’s pretty much the same.”
Jokic has played 11 seasons for the Nuggets. He has averaged 22.1 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 7.4 assists in 786 regular-season games.
He was selected to play in 7 All-Star games. He has won 3 MVP awards, 1 Finals MVP award and 1 NBA championship.
Nuggets Notes: Simpson, Jokic, Murray, Gordon https://t.co/ToYaQVX0Pj
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) February 22, 2026
