Jokić Unfazed by New NBA All-Star Game Format

Nuggets star says he'll play the same way in revamped international matchup

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokić says the new international format for the NBA All-Star Game won't change how he approaches the event. "I'm gonna play how I play every year," Jokić stated, indicating the Joker will bring his usual intensity regardless of the game's new structure pitting American NBA players against their international counterparts.

Why it matters

The NBA has revamped its All-Star Game format to feature a team of American players facing off against a team of international players, a shift that could impact how some stars approach the exhibition. However, Jokić's comments suggest the league's reigning MVP plans to maintain his typical competitive mindset.

The details

The new NBA All-Star Game format will see American NBA stars square off against international NBA stars to close out All-Star Weekend. When asked if this change would give him "more fire" to compete, Jokić dismissed the notion, saying "I'm not sure there's going to be another... bring another fire to me now because I play every game [the] same."

  • The 2026 NBA All-Star Game will feature the new international format.

The players

Nikola Jokić

The Denver Nuggets' superstar center and reigning NBA MVP.

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What they’re saying

“I'm gonna play how I play every year. I'm not sure there's going to be another... bring another fire to me now because I play every game [the] same. To me, not.”

— Nikola Jokić, Denver Nuggets Superstar (Yahoo Sports)

The takeaway

Nikola Jokić's comments suggest the NBA's reigning MVP plans to approach the revamped All-Star Game with his typical competitive fire, regardless of the new international format. The Joker's consistent mindset and playing style could give him an advantage as the league experiments with changes to its annual showcase event.