Nikola Jokić has received plenty of praise throughout the postseason for his historic offensive output in the Nuggets’ march to the NBA Finals. But, according to Jimmy Butler, the two-time MVP center deserves more respect for another aspect of his all-around game.
Ahead of Sunday’s Game 2 in Denver, the Heat star took a moment to praise Jokić’s ability on the defensive end during his media availability on Saturday. The versatile big man has often been criticized for his lack of athleticism and not being much of a shot blocker at his size, but Butler made sure to stress to reporters that his impact on defense is still felt all the same.
“As much as people look at what he does on the offensive end, he’s a hellified defender as well,” Butler said, per ESPN’s Tim MacMahon.
