The Nuggets have five preseason games, but it doesn’t look like Nikola Jokic is going to need all of them to be ready for the regular season.
The three-time MVP showed off his historic passing ability in Sunday’s preseason opener against the Jazz, delivering a ridiculous behind-the-back pass to Cameron Johnson, who cashed it in for a 3-pointer.
As Jokic prepares to become the NBA’s all-time triple-doubles leader, he’s already proving he’s game-ready.
Here’s a look at Jokic’s otherworldly pass.
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Nikola Jokic behind-the-back pass
Jokic hit the Jazz with a no-look, behind-the-back pass across the court to Johnson to set up a corner 3-pointer on Sunday night.
Nikola Jokic is the greatest passer ever. This pass is ABSOLUTELY INSANE 🤯🤯🤯 https://t.co/fpX2m8Qvvu
— Kevin O’Connor (@KevinOConnor) October 4, 2026
Here’s a behind-the-baseline angle:
Behind-the-back. Behind 3 defenders. From the baseline. Nikola Jokić, everyone 😳 https://t.co/T2Ty0NBcbA
— NBA (@NBA) October 4, 2026
The Nuggets star only played 14 minutes and scored three points, but he had seven assists in his limited time on the court in a 109-97 loss.
Jokic is sixth among active players in assists, with the five players ahead of him having entered the league earlier than he did. Those assist totals play a part in putting Jokic within 11 assists of tying the all-time record, held by Russell Westbrook. Barring an extended absence this season, Jokic’s pass Sunday night serves as proof he is set to break the record in the months ahead.
