The 2021-22 NBA season is right around the corner. Led by MVP center Nikola Jokic, the Denver Nuggets are looking to punch their fourth-straight postseason ticket. Last season, Denver made it to the Conference Semi-Finals before being swept by the Phoenix Suns. In 2021, Jokic and the Nuggets look to elevate their gameplay.
Nikola Jokic’s MVP Season
Coming into the 2020 season, Nikola Jokic had begun to establish himself as an elite big man. He was selected by Denver in the second round of the 2014 NBA Draft. Jokic has proven himself to be an integral part of the Nuggets’ game plan. In his sixth season, he showcased an MVP-style of play early and often. His 732-made field goals and 86.8 percent from the free throw line were both first in the NBA. In addition to his personal accolades, the Nuggets finished 47-25 in 2020. This equates to a .653 winning percentage which is fifth-best in franchise history.
Even though the Denver Nuggets could not bring a championship to the Mile High City last year, they accomplished quite a lot. In addition to being named MVP, the “Joker” was named an All-Star for a third consecutive season. The All-Star selection made him the first Nugget to start an All-Star Game since 2011. Furthermore, the Serbian became the lowest drafted player at 41st overall to win the award. If he can replicate his success from this past season, Jokic and the Denver Nuggets will go far.
Nikola Jokic’s 2022 MVP Projection
As the Nuggets prepare for their first preseason game on October 4, all eyes will be on Jokic. While an MVP repeat for the “Joker” will be a daunting task, it is possible. Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks was the last player to win back-to-back MVPs in 2018 and 2019. He has helped turn the Bucks franchise around and led them to an championship last season. Both big men are part of an exciting future for the NBA.
With players like Aaron Gordon and Jamal Murray around him, Jokic has the potential to do even more damage on the court this season. Head coach Michael Malone has all the tools at his disposal to make the Nuggets a true threat in the Western Conference. There is little to no belief that Jokic will repeat as MVP. However, anything can happen when it comes to sports. His path to MVP this coming season will be challenging, but it is a challenge worth pursuing.
No MVP For Nikola Jokic This Season
Nikola Jokic will not repeat as league MVP this season. He has staked his claim as one of the most dominate big men in Nuggets history. However, repeating last season’s success is a herculean task. There is a definite opportunity for Denver to be successful in 2021. Jokic will undoubtedly be the motor that powers the Nuggs. While a return trip to the playoffs is in the cards for Malone’s squad, a second-consecutive MVP award for the Nuggets’ center is not.
Final Thoughts
The upcoming season will be one of growth for Jokic and the young Nuggets. If he and the likes of Michael Porter Jr can continue to bolster an already potent offense, Denver will be dangerous. The jury is out on Joker’s chances of winning yet another MVP award. One thing is known. If he excels, the Nuggets will thrive this season.
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