Denver Nuggets: Future assets that need to be held

Now that we are getting to players that should never be traded, let’s start with the obvious one. Nikola Jokic.

I feel that I shouldn’t have to explain what an asset Nikola Jokic is to a Nuggets fan. Anybody who knew anything regarding the Nuggets knew about Nikola Jokic last season. He was a Most Improved Player Candidate, up for Assist of the Year, and become a superstar overnight. From sweet post moves to insane passes, the Joker is a true offensive gift to have.

This was just one example of the many passes that he threw last season. While Giannis Antetokounmpo was a better player stat-wise this season, I think that Jokic was honestly robbed from the Most Improved Player. If you look at the stats, Jokic technically made a bigger jump in his stats than Giannis.

Jokic doesn’t need the award to solidify his potential stardom in the NBA. In his break-out season, Jokic averaged almost 17 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists per game (via basketball-reference). I like the idea of keeping him around, no matter what it takes, as he could be a key piece in the future offense. I like the idea of running the offense through Jokic as the Nuggets look to make the playoffs in the near future.

He’s a “unicorn” in that he can do things that most centers cannot do. Jokic is a shooter, who can just as deadly from outside as he is from in the paint. He shot a respectable 32 percent from deep last year, but it’s never a good idea to leave him alone on the perimeter. I discussed his insane passing ability as well, better than most centers today. He’s efficient, shooting almost 58 percent form the floor.

Jokic could be a fun sight in the future, and let’s hope that it remains in a Nuggets uniform.