Nikola Jokic is off to a typically great start this season, already averaging a triple-double through the first six games of the season. But at this point, his stats don’t even jump off the page anymore. If anything, it’s noticeable that some of his numbers are down, especially his scoring, which is only at 22.7 points per game, which would be his lowest since the 2019-20 season.
But beyond those metrics, there’s a logical explanation, and if anything, Jokic may be playing some of his best basketball ever. While his points are down, his efficiency has been just fine. He’s only taking 14.7 field goal attempts per game, a number he hasn’t been under since 2017-18.
He is emphasizing his teammates and taking a backseat in the scoring department, as evidenced by his league-leading 18.2 potential assists per game. Jokic has also created a ridiculous 28 points per game via assist; he has a lights-out 4.3 assist-to-turnover ratio, and he’s doing it all while only possessing the ball for 4.2 minutes per game.
For reference, other players near the top of the list, like Luka Doncic and Cade Cunningham, possess the ball for almost twice as much time, with Luka having the ball for a whopping 8.7 minutes per game.
When Nuggets click, Jokic number will skyrocket
Jokic is clearly playing team-first basketball to start the year. He knows what his team needs and what they are capable of, and he knows it’s largely on him to unlock it. That’s what he’s smartly trying to do, and it’s not hard to see the vision.
Cam Johnson has been struggling big time, and Christian Braun has gotten off to a slow start. The bench guys are coming along, but are still trying to find their rhythm within this offense. These are talented players with proven pedigrees. It’s going to work out, but it’s understandably going to take some time.
The Joker knows that, and he’s being patient. It’s not like the team is hemorrhaging losses or anything. They can afford to ease their way into this season and make sure the team reaches its full potential and hits its ceiling.
That will involve a well-balanced scoring attack spread between the starters and bench players, and spearheaded by Jokic. He’s doing his best and sticking to the plan that’s best for the team. Once the players around him hit their stride and the shots start falling, the sky is the limit, and Jokic’s numbers (especially assists) could reach unthinkable heights.