Opponents are running out of ways to try to guard Nikola Jokic.
Defenses have even begun experimenting with unconventional approaches, including using smaller and quicker defenders to disrupt his rhythm.
While this strategy may seem counterintuitive given Jokić’s size, it has become an increasingly common tactic across the league. At times, it has even created moments of frustration for the three-time MVP.
So, this newfound tactic raises an important question: Does it actually work?
Jokić’s Dominance This Season
Despite missing 17 games, the 31-year-old has averaged 27.7 points per game this season on 57/38/83 shooting splits. He is also leading the league in rebounds with 12.9 a game and assists with 10.7.
He has averaged a triple-double for the entirety of a season for the second time, joining only Russell Westbrook in doing so in back-to-back seasons.
His ability to dominate the game in nearly every imaginable way is what makes him so difficult to defend. His offensive versatility often forces opponents to abandon traditional matchups altogether.
Why Smaller Defenders?
More than ever, the eight-time All-Star has had to face smaller defenders this season. This approach has put Jokić in uncomfortable situations by applying constant pressure and limiting his space to operate.
When smaller defenders guard Jokić, they often apply physical pressure to his lower body. This prevents him from establishing positioning, making it more difficult to receive the ball. By denying him easy entry passes and forcing him further away from his preferred spots, defenders are able to disrupt the flow of Denver’s offense early in possessions.
Smaller defenders, such as Keyonte George, play with a higher level of physicality towards Jokić. In many cases, that physical style is not consistently called. This allows defenders to stay aggressive on Jokić without picking up fouls.
This technique has forced the 2023 Finals MVP to respond with more physicality of his own. However, by being physical, Jokic can lose his usual rhythm, which can lead to more contested shots. Additionally, he can become focused on trying to draw fouls and or complaining to referees when they do not get called.
Does the Strategy Actually Work?
Even with this strategy used against Jokić, he continues to produce at an elite, historic level. As such, the tactic does not fully limit his overall impact. While smaller defenders can occasionally force tougher possessions, Jokić’s overall skillset allows him to adjust and still control the game in many different ways.
However, it has been a worry for the Denver Nuggets’ organization due to potential injuries from smaller defenders playing into his legs.
Jokić has had a slight dip in scoring from 29.6 points per game last season to 27.7 this season. This reflects that the smaller guard matchups may have some short-term effect, though it has not significantly reduced his dominance.
In fact, his career-high in assists proves his continued ability to adapt, as he can create for his teammates when the scoring opportunities do not present themselves.
Ultimately, while smaller defenders can disrupt possessions at times and cause frustration, teams have yet to provide a reliable solution to slowing down Jokić. And who knows if they ever will.
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