Nikola Jokic, one of the NBA’s most dangerous and all-around players, is a tough nut to crack. With his strength, excellent footwork, passing, and shooting, Jokic has faced almost every type of defense. But now Jokic himself has revealed which players he struggles with the most.
Recently, on the “Jao Mile” podcast, Jokic was asked who defends him best in the NBA. His initial response was, “Almost everyone gives him trouble.” He then mentioned a few specific names.
Ivica Zubac and Jusuf Nurkic engage in a physical battle
Jokic cited Ivica Zubac and Jusuf Nurkic as particularly difficult defenders. He said their physical strength troubles him in the post.
Jokic joked that both of them are a bit heavy-set like him, so it’s difficult to dislodge them easily when there’s a physical battle in the post.
Rudy Gobert was also praised
The three-time NBA MVP named Rudy Gobert as a brilliant defender. Jokic also acknowledged that he has had some good matches against him, but that doesn’t diminish Gobert’s defensive abilities.
Jokic also praised Gobert’s defense, citing his previous playoff performances.
Jalen Duren and Wendell Carter Jr. are also on the list.
Jokic also listed Jalen Duren and Wendell Carter Jr. of the Detroit Pistons as players he finds difficult to play against.
Interestingly, Jokic described both as difficult despite their relatively small stature. This means that height isn’t the only factor for him—physical strength, positioning, and defensive technique are just as important.
Myles Turner and Victor Wembanyama were also named.
Jokic mentioned Myles Turner , specifically highlighting his shot-blocking abilities. He also mentioned Victor Wembanyama , saying there’s no need to say much about him.
Wembanyama’s length, wingspan, and rim protection make him one of the NBA’s most unique defensive players. Jokic also made it clear that there’s no shortage of defensive talent throughout the NBA.
The entire Oklahoma City Thunder team also became a challenge
Another interesting part of Jokic’s talk was the Oklahoma City Thunder’s team defense . He didn’t just single out one player, but rather included the entire Thunder team as one of the teams that plays tough defense against them.
This suggests that Jokic’s challenges aren’t limited to one-on-one defenses. Strong team defenses, support defenders, and the right rotations can also impact his game.
Jokic’s full list
The key names mentioned by Jokic include:
- Ivica Zubac
- Jusuf Nurkic
- Rudy Gobert
- Years Duren
- Wendell Carter Jr.
- Myles Turner
- Victor Wembanyama
- The entire Oklahoma City Thunder team
While Jokic didn’t provide any official rankings for these players, his main point was that different defenders challenge him in different ways—sometimes it’s physical strength, others it’s rim protection or overall team defense.
Interestingly, the player who is considered one of the most difficult to stop in the NBA is now revealing the strength of the defenders who try to stop him.