“Despite the statistics, Jokic isn’t at the level of [Vlade] Divac and Dino [Radja] in the center position” - Toni Kukoc on Nikola Jokic (Via @Eurohoopsnet / SPORSKI ZURNAL)
There is no doubt that Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets is one of the greatest basketball players alive. The man is possibly on his way to another MVP trophy and and his team could be on the verge of winning back-to-back Finals. As well, Jokic is posting 26.1 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 8.9 assists per game, a stunning feat for the Serbian big man.
But according to Hall of Famer and three-time NBA champion Toni Kukoc, Jokic isn't yet as good as other European stars from years past. He said that Jokic isn't as talented as Serbian icon Vlade Divac and Croatian star Dino Radja.
“Despite the statistics, Jokic isn’t at the level of [Vlade] Divac and Dino [Radja] in the center position,” Kukoc said.
Kukoc went on about what both Divac and Radja did.
“30 years ago, Divac surprised America with the way he handled the ball while being this tall. Radja when it comes to how he could catch the ball under the basket and reach the other side of the court to score."
While Kukoc doesn't think Jokic is on their level, at least not yet, he does think he is getting better and better as time goes on.
“Jokić has improved a lot and can improve his game a lot,” Kukoc said.
These statements are sure to draw some ire from Nuggets fans. They believe that not only is Jokic better than both Divac and Radja, they also think that he is the best bastketball player alive right now and a future Hall of Famer. And they're not alone, many analysts and NBA historians also believe that Jokic is a generational talent unlike any other in the league right now.
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