The decision of Nikola Jokic, the reigning NBA champion and standout player for the Denver Nuggets, to join the team in 2014 has long been a source of speculation. While many players gravitate towards well-established teams or larger markets, Joker’s decision to join the Nuggets demonstrates his conviction in the organization’s future and the opportunity to have a long-term effect.
We look at the Nuggets’ commitment to fostering young talent, Coach Michael Malone’s involvement in developing Serbian skills, and the supportive team culture that has allowed the Serbian center to thrive. Understanding the numerous elements that affected Jokic’s decision to join the Nuggets provides insight into the incredible journey that led to his current status as one of the NBA’s most dominant and celebrated players.
Why did Nikola Jokic join Nuggets?
Despite originally intending to sign with a Spanish team, the Serbian’s choice to join the Denver Nuggets in 2014 proved to be a fortunate turn of events for both him and the Nuggets. Originally, Jokic planned to stay in Spain for a few years before making the move to the NBA. A terrible performance in front of Spanish officials, however, changed the path of his career.
During the game, Nikola Jokic struggled, scoring only four points, collecting three rebounds, and playing poor defense. As a result, Spanish officials chose not to sign him, prompting Jokic to reconsider his choices. After losing interest in the Spanish squad, he reconsidered joining the Nuggets, and the rest is history.
Fast Forward to today, and the 28 years old is largely recognized as the finest player in the NBA. The tremendous postseason efforts, show the incredible progress he has made since his rookie year.
The Nuggets’ selection of the 211 cm tall center with the 41st pick in the 2014 NBA Draft is now regarded as one of the biggest steals in NBA history, and it appears that fate played a role in bringing Jokic to the Nuggets and allowing him to blossom into the phenomenal player he is today.
How long has Joker been with Denver?
Nikola Jokic has been an integral part of the Denver Nuggets since the inception of his NBA career. Drafted by the Nuggets with the 41st pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, Jokic officially joined the team for the 2015-2016 season. Ever since then, he has been a consistent presence and a driving force behind the Nuggets’ success.
Throughout his 8-year tenure with the Nuggets, Joker has achieved remarkable milestones. Earning the prestigious MVP award not once, but twice, in 2020 and 2021, solidifying his status as one of the league’s most dominant players. The MVP accolades underscore his exceptional skills, leadership, and impact on the court.
The 211 cm tall center has produced major statistical contributions for the Denver Nuggets throughout his career. Joker has played a total of 596 games and has averaged 20.2 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game. These figures display his flexibility as a player and show his ability to score, rebound, and assist the offense successfully.
The 28 years old has emerged as the Nuggets’ team’s main pillar since his arrival in Denver. The center has led the squad to success regularly, taking them to deep playoff runs and developing a winning culture. Jokic’s relentless devotion to the Nuggets has won him followers and made him a beloved figure within the franchise.
