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Denver Nuggets: Three keys to success for Jokic

By James Siegle

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - APRIL 11: Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the Minnesota Timberwolves defends against Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets during the game on April 11, 2018 at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Timberwolves defeated the Nuggets 112-106. 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 Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - APRIL 11: Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the Minnesota Timberwolves defends against Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets during the game on April 11, 2018 at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Timberwolves defeated the Nuggets 112-106. 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 Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /
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Sacramento Kings v Denver NuggetsDENVER, CO – MARCH 11: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets is interviewed after defeating the Sacramento Kings on March 11, 2018 at the Pepsi Center in Denver, Colorado. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images)Getty ID: 930627306
Sacramento Kings v Denver NuggetsDENVER, CO – MARCH 11: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets is interviewed after defeating the Sacramento Kings on March 11, 2018 at the Pepsi Center in Denver, Colorado. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images)Getty ID: 930627306 /

Continue his Brand:

Nikola is a slow-footed center who jumps approximately four inches high, and has no rim protection to speak of. The four-inch vertical is on a good day…

But Jokic is also an insanely-skilled passer. His dimes and vision allowed Harris, Murray and Barton to enjoy career scoring years in 2017-2018. In addition to passing, Nikola owns a silky-smooth shooting touch, both inside and out.

The Nuggets’ franchise center possesses an awkward skill set. Let’s just get that out of the way. But the thing about this awkward skill set? It’s effectively created one of the NBA’s most proficient offenses.

Because of this, Nikola Jokic needs to continue being Nikola Jokic.

Talking heads are going to chatter. They will criticize his defense. But that’s why Denver signed Millsap to back him. Jokes towards Nikola’s athleticism will arise. But dunks and layups are each worth two points. Fans will drone nonsense about too much passing. But Denver starts high-scoring Jamal Murray at point guard for balance. Ball dominance from the center position will be scrutinized. Yet, Gary Harris is a low-maintenance cutter extraordinaire who excels off the ball.

Jokic is good enough that Denver planned its roster accordingly. Murray, Harris and Millsap compliment him perfectly…and not by accident.

Tuning out commentary will be vital for Jokic. To change his game would be harmful to both his career and Denver’s playoff chances.

Next. Top 10 Denver Nuggets of all time. dark

Don’t change, Nikola. Keep your brand, lead Denver to the playoffs.

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