Denver Nuggets: Three ways for Nikola Jokic to fail
By James Siegle
Too many offensive sets
On the subject of Malone, Coach has proven himself a decent fit overall. Malone’s players like him, and he successfully re-established trust in the Mile High. Even DeMarcus Cousins speaks highly of Coach Mike…and the NBA-world knows this isn’t an easy feat. Although he is an overall attribute to Denver, Malone occasionally blunders game strategy in a big way.
Early last season, he triggered the offense through Millsap rather than Jokic. Later in the year, Malone was forced to save a slumping squad from his previously-developed offensive sets that weren’t working.
The best coaches learn from their mistakes…often pointed out by top players.
Coach Mike has a funny, yet humble, down-to-earth personality that renders him open to development. Malone must allow Jokic to roam free as the Unicorn he is. And Jokic needs to nudge his coach in the proper direction from time-to-time. A free-flowing, Nikola-based offense is Denver’s most effective playbook. Jokic and Malone both know this…they do need the occasional reminder, however.
Conclusion
It is impossible to fully forecast this year’s ultra-competitive Western Conference. Many teams will jockey for playoff positioning in 2018-19. Denver fans anticipate the franchise’s most talented roster since George Karl left in a huff.
By all accounts, Jokic is expected to successfully lead the Nuggets back to the postseason. Established in Denver for the long haul, Nikola has a blazing future ahead of him.
If he avoids these pitfalls, look for the Mile High to turn heads this upcoming season.