NBA Rookies: Nikola Jokic Tells Chet Holmgren To Get A "Little Bit Fatter"
In the return of Sunday afternoon NBA games, the Denver Nuggets took on the Oklahoma City Thunder. For the young Thunder, this matchup served as an early-season litmus test. They have been climbing up the echelon of Western Conference squads for years prior, and many believe this could be the first season Oklahoma City enters title contention in the Shai Gilgeous-Alexander era. While this remains to be decided, the reigning champions halted the Thunder hype, at least for now.
In typical fashion, reigning Finals MVP Nikola Jokic dominated. He tallied 28 points, 14 rebounds, and 5 assists. This effort came on just 16 field goal attempts, 12 of which he converted.
In this matchup, Jokic was checked by Thunder rookie Chet Holmgren. Amongst many things, the second overall pick of the 2022 NBA Draft is best known for his defensive ability. He possesses a rare mix of length, mobility, and smarts, making him a fortifying rim protector.
However, one thing he does not possess is the strength to limit the sheer power of Jokic. In fairness, no one player or team has been able to successfully stop Jokic, but some provide more resistance than others. After the two-time MVP took it to Holmgren a couple times to open the game, it became clear 7-foot-1 center did not stand a chance against Jokic. The 80-pound weight difference was simply too much.
After the game, Jokic sang Holmgren's praises, who managed to record an efficient 19 points and 4 rebounds of his own. He began by referring to Holmgren as "really talented" before telling The Denver Post, "I think he needs experience. I think he needs to be a little bit fatter, to be honest."
While such a quote can be interpreted in many ways, it is easy to see Jokic's point of view given Holmgren's lack of success guarding him. For years, critics have lamented his slender frame. While it enables him to excel in different areas, a lack of functional mass holds him back in places. As he continues to take the toughest defensive assignments in the game, the Thunder's rookie sensation could benefit from a little extra size.
Holmgren will get more opportunities to check Jokic when they face off again on Dec. 16, Dec. 29, and Jan. 31.
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