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3x NBA Champion Gives Nikola Jokic the Hard Truth Over a Michael Jordan and Larry Bird Pickup Game: “Don’t Think He Can Play”

Published 05/28/2023, 12:00 PM EDT

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The Denver Nuggets have been exceptionally impressive during the post-season, largely due to the outstanding performances of Nikola Jokic. Jokic’s versatile offensive skills have proven to be a significant challenge for opposing defenses. Although he was the runner-up in the MVP race, Jokic faced criticism from a former NBA champion who confronted him with a harsh reality.

Nikola Jokic displayed relentless dominance as he led the Denver Nuggets to a sweep against the Los Angeles Lakers, winning all four consecutive games. Despite his outstanding performance, an NBA veteran had critical remarks for the two-time MVP.

NBA Veteran reveals harsh truth to Nikola Jokic

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Stacey King featured for the Chicago Bulls in his playing days. He was part of the Bulls side who won three consecutive titles in 1991 to 1993. Stacey King in conversation with Scottie Pippen had some harsh words for Nikola Jokic.

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He said, “If we were in a pickup game, I’ll take Larry the electrician, I’ll take Mike the plumber. I don’t think he can play, I think he’d be the last person to get picked” He explained that one would choose Bird and Jordan over Jokic every time. Safe to say despite the strides that Jokic has made in the league, King believes that he still has a lot to catch up on to be on the same bracket as Bird and Jordan. It’ll be interesting to hear what the Joker has to say on this.

Before Stacey King gave his take on Jokic, Shaquille O’Neal also had some harsh words for the Nuggets star which might not go down well with him.

Shaquille O’Neal’s massive claims

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During an interview, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal confidently stated that he would dominate in a one-on-one matchup against Nikola Jokic. He remarked, “He wouldn’t have played me one-on-one. It doesn’t matter. I would have played him one-on-one. He’s crafty, probably would have got us, I am not known for defense, but there’s no way he can play me one-on-one.”

The Lakers legend’s self-assurance stems from his reputation as the most dominant player of all time and widely regarded as the best center in NBA history. Many share the belief in Shaq’s exceptional skills and dominance on the court.

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WATCH THE STORY: Nikola Jokic share wholesome ring moment with daughter and wife. 

Do you agree with Stacey King’s assessment of Nikola Jokic? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by:

Aaditya Negi

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Aaditya is an NBA writer at EssentiallySports and has been following the game for a number of years. He is an avid fan of the NBA and follows what’s happening in the league on a daily basis. Having worked as an intern in the sports domain, his passion for writing arose from his fondness for the intricacies of the game.
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Edited by:

Debmallya Chakraborty