Nikola Jokic hit a 12-foot jumper with 11.5 seconds remaining to secure a 125-123 victory for the Denver Nuggets over the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday night. The game-winning shot punctuated a performance where Jokic recorded 23 points, 17 rebounds, and tied a season-high with 17 assists. The victory arrives amid an increasingly physical defensive standard permitted by NBA officials against the three-time MVP.
The physical toll on the center has become a central focal point across the league as the postseason approaches. Denver Sports 104.3 hosts Zach Bye and Phillip Lindsay outlined “The Jokic Rules” during a local broadcast on Tuesday. The hosts analyzed how referees are consistently allowing smaller defenders to execute hyper-aggressive tactics against Jokic without whistle penalties.
The officiating trend follows a series of escalating on-court altercations throughout the 2025-2026 season. On February 28, Oklahoma City Thunder forward Lu Dort received a Flagrant 2 foul and an ejection after intentionally tripping Jokic. The incident triggered a scuffle and resulted in double technical fouls.
Nuggets acting coach David Adelman addressed the changing dynamic in early March. Adelman acknowledged the unique challenges presented by smaller defenders using aggressive schemes to limit Jokic. The acting coach stressed the team must adjust to the physical play rather than expecting a whistle.
The ongoing physical punishment has tested Jokic’s preseason vow to stop complaining to referees. He accumulated zero technical fouls early in the year under that mandate. The visible frustration has resurfaced as the unpenalized contact continues late into the schedule.