Nikola Jokic is embracing a new attitude for the current NBA season, opting for a calmer approach on the court. Known for his animated arguments with officials, Jokic plans to focus on maintaining a peaceful demeanor and minimizing distractions during games.
Nikola Jokic’s Zen Approach
This year, Jokic is determined not to stress or argue with referees. He stated, “That’s my new thing this year. I’m just gonna try to comport my energy to the basketball place.” This shift marks a new chapter for the three-time MVP, who has previously struggled with emotions regarding officiating.
A History of Technical Fouls
Throughout his career, Jokic has accumulated 46 technical fouls and experienced nine ejections. He expressed frustration in the past about being physically targeted by smaller players without consequences. Despite this, he is committed to changing his approach.
- This season, Jokic hasn’t picked up a technical foul yet.
- In training camp, he had discussions with NBA referees to improve communication.
- His goal is to control what he can, focusing on respectful dialogue rather than arguments.
Supporting Roles and Responsibilities
While Jokic maintains his calm, he continues to communicate with Nuggets coach David Adelman regarding officiating challenges. Recently, he even called for a challenge just seconds into a game against the Pelicans. This indicates his commitment to ensuring productive outcomes on the court.
Adelman humorously mentioned the potential role reversal, stating, “Yeah, he’s in a better mood, and I’m in a worse mood.” Acknowledging that players’ interactions with officials can impact their performance, he supports Jokic’s new mindset.
Future Implications for Jokic
Although Jokic has encountered two flagrant fouls early this season and fouled out of a game, he remains focused on staying out of trouble with officials. Achieving a full season without a technical foul would be a significant milestone for him, marking the first time since the 2016-17 season.
Jokic’s current philosophy is about wasting no energy on unchangeable calls. By redirecting his focus, he aims to enhance both his performance and mental state throughout the season. As he continues to adapt, fans and teams alike will watch closely to see how this new approach unfolds.
