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Nikola Jokic`s Impact on Nuggets Despite Illness

:Nikola Jokic, the three-time NBA MVP, has been a pivotal figure for the Denver Nuggets, even though his recent games have been marred by an illness. Here’s a deep dive into his performance over the last 10 games and the impact of his absence.

Recent Performance

In his last 10 games, Jokic has maintained an impressive average of 31.5 points, 13.0 rebounds, and 9.7 assists per game. He has been shooting 55.4% from the field and 47.7% from the three-point range, showcasing his versatility and dominance on the court. Notably, in a game against the San Antonio Spurs, he scored 46 points, grabbed nine rebounds, and dished out ten assists, highlighting his ability to perform under pressure.

Key Metrics

- Points: 31.5 per game
- Rebounds: 13.0 per game
- Assists: 9.7 per game
- Field Goal Percentage: 55.4%
- Three-Point Percentage: 47.7%

Wins and Losses

When Jokic plays, the Nuggets have a significant advantage. In recent wins, such as against the Atlanta Hawks and the Utah Jazz, Jokic's contributions were crucial. For example, against the Hawks, he scored 23 points, grabbed 17 rebounds, and had 15 assists. However, his absence due to illness in the game against the Boston Celtics saw the Nuggets struggle, despite a valiant effort. The Celtics won 118-106, with the Nuggets missing Jokic's all-around performance.

Impact on the Team

Jokic's impact on the Nuggets cannot be overstated. Coach Michael Malone emphasized the difficulty in replacing him, noting, `we don't have another guy averaging 32, 13 and 10.` His absence was felt deeply in the game against the Celtics, where the Nuggets fought hard but ultimately fell short. Jokic's ability to score, rebound, and assist at an elite level makes him irreplaceable in the Nuggets' lineup.

Critical View

Jokic's performance this season has been nothing short of phenomenal. His ability to maintain such high averages across multiple statistical categories is a testament to his skill and work ethic. However, his illness highlights the fragility of even the best players and the importance of depth in a team. The Nuggets' reliance on Jokic is evident, and while he is on the court, they are a formidable opponent. His absence, however, exposes the team's vulnerabilities and underscores the need for other players to step up.

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