Fresh off of getting crowned the NBA Most Valuable Player last season, Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic has been busy putting in work ahead of the start of training camp.
The notion of an MVP already back in the gym working may not come as a surprise to many, but the work ethic demonstrated by Jokic has left a lasting impression on rookie Nah’Shon Hyland. He has carefully been studying Jokic and has been amazed by what he has seen.
Of course, Jokic became the lowest-drafted player (41st overall) to earn MVP honors. He played all 72 games and averaged a career-high 26.4 points, 10.9 rebounds, 8.4 assists and 1.3 steals. He was just the third player in history to average at least 26 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists.
With training camp set to kick off next week, the Nuggets have organized several group workouts in various locations. The team recently rain stairs at the Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre while they also took part in MMA-style training with Jokic in attendance for both activities.
“You would never know that he won MVP,” Hyland said on Tuesday. “It’s like he doesn’t want to talk about it with the way he carries himself. It’s crazy! I don’t know how to describe it. When he walks into the locker room, or when he walks into the gym, you would never know he won MVP with the way he carries himself. (It’s like) he’s grinding for another MVP or the next contract. He is 1-of-1, for sure.”
you wanna see some real speed pic.twitter.com/OUPfKoiYDH
— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) September 10, 2021
Hyland has had the opportunity to spend time with Jokic and run some pickup games with him recently. He was paired up with him on the same team, which helped him begin to understand where Jokic likes to get the ball and other facets of his game.
The 26th overall pick admittedly said he is still getting used to the altitude in the Mile High City but knows he will be ready when the season starts. He has been highly touted for his ability as a shooter but he is also looking to showcase his passing and playmaking.
Certainly, having Jokic on the court with him will help in that department.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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