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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

Nikola Jokic is redefining the expectations of what a center can achieve on the basketball court. His creativity and skills have established him as one of the most innovative centers in the game. Jokic’s leadership has propelled the Denver Nuggets to secure a spot in the NBA Finals. A notable NBA veteran appears to be highly impressed by Jokic’s basketball prowess, as he showered him with extensive praise while subtly criticizing Joel Embiid.

Despite Nikola Jokic being one of the top contenders, Joel Embiid emerged as the recipient of this year’s MVP award. Additionally, Embiid claimed the scoring title for the season. However, a seven-time NBA All-Star, who is renowned for his scoring ability, made some controversial comments directed towards Embiid, which may not align with popular opinion.

NBA Veteran slams Joel Embiid while lauding Jokic

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During a conversation with Boston Celtics legend Kevin Garnett, Tracy McGrady promptly highlighted Nikola Jokic’s exceptional versatility in basketball. McGrady expressed his belief that Jokic excels in every aspect of the game. When Joel Embiid’s name was brought up by Garnett, McGrady swiftly emphasized the significant contrast between the two big men, implying that Jokic’s skills surpass those of Embiid.

USA Today via Reuters

“I don’t think he has the endurance of doing that for 82 games,” said the seven-time NBA All-Star. McGrady expressed his belief that Embiid might be good but lacks the stamina possessed by Nikola Jokic. The narrative of laziness surrounding Embiid in the league is still circulating, despite him winning the MVP award this year. McGrady once again questioned Embiid’s stamina. On the other hand, Nikola Jokic continues to assert himself as a leader on his team, leading in scoring. McGrady firmly believes that Jokic is currently the best player in the league.

 

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Nikola Jokic’s impressive nonchalant mentality

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Nikola Jokic finished as the runner-up in the MVP race, losing out to Joel Embiid. However, according to Jokic’s teammate Michael Porter Jr., the big man was unfazed by the result. Porter Jr. stated, “He was more nonchalant about it than I think. Like anyone could really understand everyone that he really did not care if he won the MVP. He didn?t care about any of that.” Jokic’s primary focus is on the objective of winning the NBA title rather than individual accolades. It remains to be seen if Jokic will achieve his goal of winning his first NBA championship this season.

WATCH THIS STORY: Charles Barkley dismantles Nikola Jokic’s Nuggets.