While Nuggets 2014 First Round Draft picks Jusuf Nurkić and Gary Harris were learning and experiencing the nuances of the NBA game during their rookie seasons, another Nugget prospect was improving in his own way on the other side of the world last season.
The third member of the Nuggets 2014 draft class, Nikola Jokić, put together a fantastic season for KK Mega Vizura of the Adriatic League.
With in-depth International Scouting prowess, the Nuggets front office staff led by General Manager Tim Connelly and Assistant General Manager Arturas Karnisoivas selected Jokić in the second round with the 41st overall selection of the 2014 NBA Draft.
Jokić, 6-11, 253, has averaged 16.1 ppg, 9.6 rpg, 3.1 apg, 1.42 spg and 0.94 bpg in 33 games this season. He has also garnered four Round MVP awards this season (similar to NBA's Player of the Week award).
The Nuggets are very high on his basketball IQ and his passing skills along with his offensive skillset.
Strengths
- Nice touch offensively around the basket
- Big body will only get stronger
- Can step out to three-point range
- Good offensive rebounder
- Operates well from the high post
NBA Projection:
A big-bodied center with the ability to step out to three-point range. Jokić is crafty around the hoop.
(According to NBA.com)