Denver Nuggets: 4 burning questions entering training camp
By Sean Carroll
Denver Nuggets questions entering training camp: Will Nikola Jokic re-peat as MVP?
Nikola Jokic is an amazing player and deserving MVP.
This past season, he averaged 26.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 8.3 assists (all career highs) while playing in every single game. He reached those numbers while shooting 57 percent from the floor, 39 percent from behind the arc, and 87 percent from the free throw line.
He was the go-to offensive player on the league’s fifth-best offense per Cleaning the Glass and his questions on defense were irrelevant as Denver held the 11th best defense with him playing most of the minutes at center.
But will he be able to do it again?
Jokic has remained humble when speaking with the media just before training camp, some might even say a bit too humble, but that’s just who Nikola is. He said he continued working out for the entire offseason alongside winning 15 to 20 horse races and getting ready for his first child.
"“I found a recipe (to working out) and I’m just sticking to it. So, there’s nothing different than the last year. Hopefully, it (this season) is going to be a good as last year.”"
He was also seen working out in Denver recently with some of the players and training staff. Incoming rookie, Bones Hyland was impressed with his work ethic:
"“You would never know that he won MVP. Just the way he carries himself, it’s like he’s grinding for another MVP, or he’s grinding for that next contract. He’s one of one for sure.”"
It’s great news in terms of Jokic’s fitness and commitment in the offseason, but will it win over voters for another season?
Probably not. The MVP award is extremely narrative-driven and we’ve seen voters in the past shy away from giving out back-to-back MVPs in search of a new story.
Will Jokic play at (or above) his MVP level?
It’s looking like a yes and the rest of the league should be scared.