Nuggets vs. Spurs: Player Grades

A. If Mahmoud was the engine of that stellar mid-90’s Nuggets squad, Dikembe Mutombo was it’s heart.  Something about a shot-blocker that fans just love.  We had it with Deke, we had it with Camby, both were DPOY and both were loved. <p>The Nuggets current big man finds his love in a completely different manner.  Nikola Jokic posted another Triple-Double against the Spurs with 23 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists.  His ability to guide the Nuggets’ offense from the top of the key, the post or on the break are astounding.  There’s no position I’ve seen Nikola put in where he isn’t a play maker (offensively, that is).  Teams have to respect his shot, that’s not unique among NBA bigs, they have difficulty countering his passing and he can take just about any NBA center off the dribble.  That versatility earned him a segment from Shaq during the broadcast and a comparison to Bryant “Big Country” Reeves.  Big Country is a fairly apt comparison, he had some of Nikola’s ability in a time when it was unheard of for a 7-footer to venture outside the paint.  A big guy that can look awkward but has surprisingly soft touch.  If nothing else, Nikola always seems in command of his game.  He is aware when he needs to score, when he needs to distribute, even when he needs to get out of the way.  He’s blended well with his teammates and all now seem complimentary to his game.</p> <p>So, with a triple-double and all of the above praise, why not an A+ for the Joker?</p> <p>Defense.  This is the second time in 3 games we’ve seen Nikola get eaten up by pick-and-roll.  He flashes on the pick but is just a step slow on the roll.  It’s a concern.  The beauty of Nikola is, he won’t rest until he’s worked that out.</p> <p>He shoots free throws at a high percentage.  He’s been blocking shots and generally participating more in the interior defense.  While never considered a rim protector, he’s at times done  a passable job defending the basket.  There’s no deficiency that has been identified in his game that he doesn’t work out.</p> <p>He works hard and it shows.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p>. C. Nuggets. NIKOLA JOKIC