After what was a breakthrough campaign from Denver Nuggets All-Star big man Nikola Jokic last season, much of the same is expected from him again this coming year. However, despite many expecting the 24-year-old to have yet another run at the MVP title this season, Jokic himself downplayed this angle.
According to the 7-foot center, the MVP trophy is not something he intends to chase. Rather, he will continue to focus on getting the W for his team night in and night out.
“No, it's just something that comes about when you're playing good and winning, I think,” he said, via Sky Sports.
“It's not something you chase personally. I just work to get wins, that's the most important thing.”
Last season, Jokic averaged career-high marks in almost every department, as he logged 20.1 points (on 51.1 percent shooting), 10.8 rebounds, 7.3 assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.7 blocks in 31.3 minutes of play, while also knocking down 1.0 three-pointers per contest. Those are indeed some MVP-caliber numbers right there, which is exactly why Jokic was included in the conversation for last season's best player in the league.
However, as Jokic stated, the more important thing for him is how he is able to contribute for his team. The former 41st overall pick is indeed a big picture kind of guy, as he puts the good of the squad over his own personal achievements.
It will be an exciting season ahead for the Nuggets, and while they did not exactly make the biggest of splashes in the offseason, Denver is still expected to be one of the most formidable sides in a ruthless Western Conference for the 2019-20 campaign.
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