Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets have solidified their status as one of the NBA’s top teams in recent years. When asked about his team, the two-time MVP painted a fascinating image of the organisation.
“We are just quiet giants.” – Nikola Jokic recounts Denver’s stealthy path to becoming NBA titans.
Despite winning their first title in franchise history and having a superstar centre on their roster, the Nuggets have received little attention. They are given credit when it is due, but they do not receive the same amount of media attention as a larger market team like the Los Angeles Lakers.
During All-Star weekend, Nikola Jokic was asked about his Nuggets team and its climb to prominence in the NBA. He described them as “quiet giants.”
“I think we are, I’m gonna say quiet giants, if that makes any sense,” Jokic was reported as saying. “Even with the Denver Nuggets, we don’t make noise; we’re more of a wave. I’ll say, “Quiet Giants.”
Nikola Jokic gives a great explanation of the Denver Nuggets.
NBA MVP odds and best bets for the All-Star break: Can anyone catch Nikola Jokic? – Chicago Tribune.
It’s not something you hear every day, but Nikola Jokic accurately described himself and the Denver Nuggets. They made minimal noise during their ascent, eventually establishing themselves as a constant rival.
Playing in a smaller market helped the Nuggets establish themselves as “quiet giants,” and they have retained that position even after winning the championships. Denver is currently fourth in the Western Conference, although it receives significantly less attention than the teams ahead of it. In terms of media coverage, the Los Angeles Clippers, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Minnesota Timberwolves have received significantly more than the reigning champions.
In addition to being a top-four Western Conference team, Nikola Jokic is having a historic season. With Joel Embiid sidelined, the Nuggets star is in a great position to win his third MVP award. This season, Jokic has an average of 26.1 points, 12.0 rebounds, and 8.9 assists. If he reaches a triple-double, he will be the only centre in history to average one throughout a season.
Nikola Jokić: How the Denver Nuggets centre attained basketball stardom | CNN.
The Nuggets’ quiet giant status is due in great part to how they were founded. Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Michael Porter Jr. are all homegrown players. The deal for Aaron Gordon was Denver’s most major move in recent years. As a result, they were able to evolve over time without becoming overly self-centered.
While the Nuggets may not receive enough attention, there is no doubt that they are a good team. After winning the championship last year, they will surely be a contender again this season.