Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone lauded Nikola Jokic’s defensive intelligence following the team’s thrilling comeback victory over the Toronto Raptors.
Jokic’s performance included 35 points, 17 rebounds, 12 assists, and a season-high six steals.
In a postgame press conference, Malone highlighted Jokic’s defensive prowess, emphasizing the Serbian star’s ability to outsmart opponents despite not relying on athleticism.
“People criticize Nikola because he doesn’t average three blocks a game, but if you really are a basketball purist and you watch the game, you see he’s got some of the best hands in the NBA bar none,” Malone said, per Ryan Blackburn. “He’s never going to out-athleticize anyone, but he is going to outsmart you.”
