I AIN’T NO JOKE
“HE’S an offensive juggernaut,” says one opposing coach.
“When he has the freedom to create, he’s a killer,” says another. “He’s a lot like Anthony Davis in that way.”
“The way he baits a defense can’t be taught,” says a third. “When all is said and done, he’ll be the best passing big man ever.”
Anyone who’s been paying attention this season won’t be surprised by the subject of these glowing reviews, but for casual sports fans just tuning in as the NBA playoffs approach, the juggernaut killer is liable to surprise. This is high praise from staff members employed to scout weaknesses in their opposition, and it’s about damn time you got to know Nikola Jokic.
Seated on a steel bench by himself in the corner of the National Basketball Players Association gym in midtown Manhattan—catching his breath while Malik Beasley, Gary Harris and Will Barton launch post-practice half court shots—the 24-year-old Serbian doesn’t exactly strike fear in those around him. Sure, at 7-0 and 250 pounds, Denver’s
