lack of athleticism and quickness
by DBCooper (2023-05-17 09:14:11)
Edited on 2023-05-17 09:21:25

In reply to: How did the NBA draft miss so badly on Jokic?  posted by Raoul


Considered a good offensive prospect, but would get killed defensively. Happens alot with centers. Look at some of the better offensive centers in college and how quickly they have failed in the NBA. And Euro centers didnt have a strong reputation in the NBA either. He probably was considered a stash and dash prospect too, as many European second rounders are. But he improved quickly after the draft and had a great year right before coming to the NBA.


He didnt play in the best league in Europe too IIRC.

Jokic has worked on his limitations, but his Basketball IQ and passing ability for a big man are in the same class as Bird and Magic. Its just that good. And it makes up for any athletic and defensive shortcomings (which he has improved).



Look at where Giannis was drafted too.


I think the NBA has gotten better with players overseas, but even as recently as 10 years ago they completely missed the boat on an international phenom. Its interesting that arguably the 2 best players in the NBA right now were not lottery picks.


But there are just some guys who can play at a very high level in the NBA who are not the most athletic or quickest. Their basketball IQ is just that much better than others in the league. Brunson on the Knicks come to mind too. How he is able to get a good shot is amazing to me as well.


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