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Nikola Jokic showing slight defensive improvements

By Mathew Huff

NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 30: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets reacts prior to taking on the New York Knicks during their game at Madison Square Garden on October 30, 2017 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 30: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets reacts prior to taking on the New York Knicks during their game at Madison Square Garden on October 30, 2017 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /
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Nikola Jokic has never been a great defender, but he has been showing some slight improvements on this end of the floor.

While the season is still young, one has to acknowledge the improvements Nikola Jokic has showcased so far.

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He certainly is not Rudy Gobert by any means when it comes to defense, but considering this has always been his achilles heel, baby steps are a great sign for him and the team in terms of him becoming a complete player.

According to basketball-reference.com, Jokic has a defensive rating of 104 so far this year which is an improvement from his 109 rating from last season. He still has a lot of work to do, but he has made it clear this season he is working tirelessly to improve his craft. Part of this may be due to the influence of Paul Millsap and him still being young enough to improve certain facets of his game before it is too late. Many times, offensively minded players don’t improve defensively soon enough and become one dimensional for the rest of their career.

If his play this season has been any indication, he is committed to eventually becoming a solid two way center. In the win against the Toronto Raptors, Jokic recorded two blocks and one steal. In the loss against the Knicks, he had one steal and one block.

In the win over the Nets, Jokic tallied one block and one steal as well. Jokic still has a ways to go to become a solid low post defender, but so far, he has been showing signs of improvement and if he can continue on this path, then the NBA will be even more terrified of him in the future.

Next: Denver's team chemistry

Jokic is on the correct pace right now and he must continue playing like he has been playing.

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