In a candid admission, former Golden State Warriors general manager and current ESPN analyst Bob Myers revealed that the franchise overlooked the talents of Nikola Jokic during the 2014 NBA draft. Jokic, who has since become a cornerstone for the Denver Nuggets and a dominant force in the league, led his team to a 114-103 victory over the LA Lakers in Game One of their opening-round playoff series.
During the live broadcast of the game, Myers acknowledged the oversight, stating, “I don’t even remember a conversation about Nikola Jokic [during the draft process]. That’s probably why I’m sitting here with you.”
Despite being passed over by nearly every team in the league, Jokic emerged as a second-round steal for the Nuggets, being selected 41st overall. Since then, the Serbian sensation has transformed into one of the NBA’s most formidable talents, guiding Denver to consistent competitiveness and securing numerous accolades.
With an NBA title under his belt from last season, back-to-back MVP awards in 2021 and 2022, and six NBA All-Star selections, Jokic’s impact on the Nuggets’ success is undeniable. His unique skill set, basketball IQ, and versatility have propelled him to elite status in the league, making him a nightmare matchup for opposing teams.
While the Warriors missed out on the opportunity to draft Jokic in 2014, the franchise went on to achieve remarkable success, winning four NBA titles (2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022) under Myers’ leadership. Despite the oversight, the Warriors’ ability to build a championship-calibre team showcases their astute decision-making and commitment to excellence.
Following the Nuggets’ hard-fought victory over the Lakers, Jokic emphasized the need for improvement despite the positive result. The Serbian superstar, who finished with an impressive stat line of 32 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists, acknowledged the team’s slow start and emphasized the importance of defensive intensity moving forward.
“They got the lead in the first half; we were down three at halftime, and the mindset needed to change,” Jokic stated. “I think our defence in the second half was amazing, and that’s how we need to play if we want to do something.”
Alongside Jokic’s stellar performance, his teammates also made significant contributions to the Nuggets’ victory. Jamal Murray delivered a solid performance with 22 points and 10 assists, while Michael Porter Jr., Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and Aaron Gordon provided valuable contributions to secure the win.
With the series poised at 1-0 in favour of the Nuggets, both teams will look to make necessary adjustments heading into Game Two on Monday in Denver. As the playoff intensity continues to ramp up, expect another thrilling showdown between these two talented teams.
Bob Myers’ candid admission regarding Nikola Jokic serves as a reminder of the unpredictability and challenges associated with the NBA draft process. While talent evaluation is an integral part of building a successful team, it also highlights the importance of recognizing potential and adapting to changing circumstances.
Jokic’s journey from being a second-round draft pick to an NBA superstar showcases the importance of resilience, hard work, and seizing opportunities when they arise. His impact on the Nuggets’ success serves as a testament to his dedication and passion for the game.
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