Nikola Jokic is arguably the best player in the NBA. Both Denver Nuggets fans and the NBA world understand that he is an unbelievable talent. While most of the league is beginning to admit that Jokic has an argument for being referred to as the best passer in the league, his passing still gets overlooked at times. Tim Legler of ESPN recently commented on Jokic's incredible ability to distribute the basketball, via the ALL NBA Podcast.
While talking about Serbia and EuroBasket, Legler said that Jokic's "passing ability" has played a significant role in the team's success.
"Even if you don't have a well-orchestrated set on a given possession or the timing is off, or a screen wasn't set right, or a guy just forgets what to do, or it's over-played and defended well, this guy absolutely makes up for all of that," Legler said of Jokic. "He erases any mistake you make on a possession with his ability to get the ball from point A to point B."
Jokic's passes are not always fancy -- although, as Nuggets fans know, sometimes they are rather jaw-dropping. Whether it is an incredible no-look delivery or a basic bounce/chest pass, Jokic knows exactly where to place the basketball. He often looks like a quarterback leading his wide receiver to the perfect spot, or a pitcher painting the corner of the strike zone.
In other words, Nikola Jokic is an elite passer. Some will claim he is the best passing big man in the NBA -- and it is quite difficult to refute that notion. However, Jokic is arguably the best passer in the entire NBA regardless of position.
Players often improve their performance in Denver. That does not happen by mistake. Nuggets players seem to enjoy playing alongside Jokic. He is unselfish and always wants to make the right play. Additionally, Jokic's Serbia teammates also seem to enjoy playing with him.
It doesn't matter which team he is on. Jokic always finds a way to help his teammates. He also does not have to be overly ball-dominant. Some of the best passers in the league have to have the ball in their hands for most of a possession. Jokic can catch the ball at the top of the key and find a cutter without any trouble.
Sure, Jokic is more than capable of taking the ball up the floor and setting up the offense, but the point is that he is a versatile passer. He can have the ball for 20 seconds of the 24-second shot clock or for two seconds of the shot clock. Either way, Jokic's impact is often beneficial for his teammates.