Nikola Jokic might very well be on the cusp of creating history once again. The Denver Nuggets protagonist has transfigured the role of a Center in the league.
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The Joker was acquired by the Nuggets as the 41st overall pick in the second round of the 2014 draft. In general, players who are picked in the second round tend to be utilized as role players. So this begs the question, just how phenomenal is Nikola Jokic?
Although the process was slow and tedious, Jokic was eventually integrated into the starting lineup for the Nuggets after impressing from the bench. He thereafter established himself as their primary option, for his impact beyond the spectrum of scoring.
The Serbian is involved in every facet of play and is the talisman for the franchise. The offense runs through the 27-year-old who has been an anchor for the Nuggets.
However, it was over the past couple of seasons that the Joker really elevated his game, winning successive MVP awards in 2021 and 2022. And while Jokic does not possess a reputation for being a prolific scorer, his displays contradict popular belief. In fact, he has showcased this in just over 30 games so far this season.
Nikola Jokic doubles down on his 2022 tally!
If you were of the idea that Nikola Jokic’s best years are officially done, take a gander again. The reigning, undisputed NBA MVP has had a historic campaign so far, creating records and leading his franchise to the second seed in a talent-packed Western Conference.
Nikola Jokic has more 40-point games this December than he had in his last MVP season. pic.twitter.com/NU5CGCMu2B
— StatMuse (@statmuse) December 29, 2022
Jokic is currently averaging 25.7 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 9.4 assists in 31 games this season. Lethal. It was recently brought to light that the Denver Nuggets All-Star has surpassed his tally of 40-point games in December alone, as compared to the entirety of his 2022 NBA season in 50 fewer games.
A sublime achievement for someone who had a Taco Bell commercial played at the time of his acquisition in the 2014 draft. The Serbian has always prided his game on the fact that he impacts winning.
Will the Joker win his third MVP as well as the NBA championship?
While it’s still early days to have a concise verdict, the Denver Nuggets are no doubt a significant contender for the NBA championship. Behind Nikola Jokic’s stellar performances, the Nuggets faithful have every reason to be optimistic.
Albeit they were defeated in five games in the 2022 NBA playoffs at the hands of the Golden State Warriors, an integral fact that is often overlooked is that the roster was depleted. Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. were being nursed back from the serious injuries the pair suffered.
Leaving Jokic to fend for himself and the franchise. This season, however, the tides have sailed in the favor of the Nuggets. Their trinity of Jokic, Murray, and Porter Jr. has made for exceptional viewing so far.
As long as the trio can maintain their health and fitness, the Nuggets possess the most talented roster in the league in terms of strength and depth.
Nikola Jokic on the other hand will also be in a convenient position to be hailed as the MVP yet again, provided they continue their form. But best belief, it’s not beyond the Serbian and the Joker, rest assured, will be gunning for the title.
