Nikola Jokic didn't mince words after the Denver Nuggets' early playoff exit. Following a 110-98 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 6 of their first-round series, the three-time NBA MVP made it clear that his team has work to do.

"We just lost in the first round," Jokic said. "So, I think we are far away [from contending for a title]."

The Timberwolves, seeded sixth, stunned the third-seeded Nuggets with a 4-2 series win in Minneapolis. It marked just the second time Denver has been eliminated in the first round during Jokic's tenure—a sobering reality for a franchise that hoisted the Larry O'Brien Trophy just two seasons ago.

Jokic, who finished the game with 28 points, 10 assists, and nine rebounds, was candid about Minnesota's dominance. "They were better in every aspect of the game," he said, pointing to the Timberwolves' ball security and offensive rebounding as key factors. The numbers backed him up: Minnesota outrebounded Denver 50-33 and committed just seven turnovers to the Nuggets' 13, despite nearly identical shooting percentages.

Jaden McDaniels led the Timberwolves with a game-high 32 points, while Terrence Shannon Jr. added 24. Rudy Gobert contributed a near triple-double with 10 points, 13 rebounds, and eight assists, showcasing the depth that overwhelmed Denver.

Despite the disappointment, Jokic's commitment to the franchise remains unwavering. The 31-year-old Serbian superstar, who signed a five-year, $276.1 million contract extension in 2022, made his intentions clear: "I still want to be a Nugget forever."

Jokic is set to earn $59 million next season, with a $62.8 million player option for 2027-28. While speculation swirls about potential extensions or trades, he declined to comment on whether he'd sign another deal if offered. For now, the eight-time All-Star and reigning NBA Finals MVP is focused on the road ahead—even if that road looks longer than expected.

"I'm disappointed," Jokic admitted. "I don't know what's the level of it."