Since entering the N.B.A in 2015, Nikola Jokic has proven time and time again to be a unique talent. He is known for his basketball IQ, playmaking and passing skills, and his 6'3″ height makes him a unique player. But a former one Denver Nuggets His teammate recently made a striking comparison that suggests Jokic's skills may not be on par with KArl Anthony Towns in some key areas.

“He's an average shooter… He's not a good three-point shooter.” Austin Rivers Jokic explained and commented during a conversation with his co-host Pausha Haghighi on the OffGuard Podcast. Rivers, now an NBA analyst, debated the league's top centers, praising Towns' skills while drawing contrasts Funny.

Austin started with praise Karl Anthony cities's skills and states, “He is extremely talented as a basketball player.” Speaking of which New York Knicks middle, he added, “He’s probably the most talented center in the NBA.” However, Haghighi quickly questioned this and replied: “Well, Jokic is the most talented center in the NBA.”

From there, Rivers continued with surprising comments about Jokic: “He can't shoot like Karl…They're not even in the same area of ​​shooting…Karl is a better scorer than Nikola in almost every attribute of the game.” he argued. Haghighi fought back, noting Jokic's ability to do so “Take apart every team he plays.” which Rivers admitted “That’s because he has the highest IQ.”

Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets is guarded by Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first quarter during Game 2 of the Western Conference Second Round Playoffs at Ball Arena on May 6, 2024 in Denver, Colorado.

Jokic's other strengths

While Austin Rivers may have downplayed Jokic's scoring prowess, he was careful to make it clear that it does not undermine Nikola's status as a player. “I didn’t say he (Towns) is a better player. That’s not even up for debate,” He remarked before concluding emphatically: “Nikola is the best player in the NBA.”

see also

NBA News: Nikola Jokic takes primary responsibility for the Nuggets' loss to the Timberwolves

First-hand insights into Jokic and Towns

Austin Rivers brings a unique authority to the Jokic Towns comparison. A veteran of more than a decade in the NBA (2012-2023), Rivers not only has extensive league experience, but also shares the rare distinction of having played alongside both stars.

Rivers spent the 2021-22 season with Jokic Denver Nuggets before you switch to Minnesota Timberwolves for the 2022-23 season, where he worked with Towns. This close-up of both players, gained through daily interaction on and off the field, gives him valuable insight into their different strengths and styles.

Jokic vs. Towns

While scoring ability is at the heart of the Nikola Jokic vs. Karl-Anthony Towns debate, the stats don't fully support Austin Rivers' perspective. This season, for example Jokic has a significant lead over Towns in points per game (29.6 to 21.3). The New York Knicks center is slightly ahead in terms of three-point shooting (57.9% vs. 53.1%). Ultimately, this complex issue depends on the individual Interpretation, Highlighting the different strengths each player brings to the pitch.