Nikola Jokic recovers the initial jump ball, then Jamal Murray gives him the ball back in the Wizards' camp. The “Joker” then takes advantage of several screens, and will place himself low, facing Daniel Gafford. A few dribbles, work with his back to the circle, a spin move and an arm roll later, the double MVP scored the first basket.
The Nuggets' strategy was clear from the start: emphasize Nikola Jokic in the paint.
“Nikola was phenomenal tonight, from start to finish” noted once again Mike Malonehis coach. “He continues to show why he is the player he is. »
Taking advantage of his physical and technical advantage, the Serbian hammered the Wizards under the circle during the first three quarters. His final stat line? 42 points at 15/20 shooting, 12 rebounds and 8 assists!
” It's hard. They do a good job of playing around him. They have shooters, athletes” explained Tyus Jones, while the Wizards preferred to let the opposing pivot score, rather than seeing him read and use two-handed shots. “He and Jamal are a great tandem, so it’s a huge challenge. It's unique because he's very selfless so I think that's what makes him so hard to stop. »
But whatever the strategy, it is extremely complicated to slow down Nikola Jokic, and the Denver player was even entitled to the “MVP, MVP” from Wizards fans, on his final free throws.
“It’s unique” appreciated Mike Malone, to conclude. “It doesn't happen very often so I think they just recognized his talent. This is a guy who is a two-time MVP, as a second-round draft pick, a player who carried his franchise to its first title in its history. And a Finals MVP too.”
