Nikola Jokic was impressed by Golden State Warriors rookie Trayce Jackson-Davis. The first-year center earned his first taste of guarding Jokic when the two teams faced off on Nov. 8. The Denver Nuggets won the game 105-108. Jackson-Davis played a bigger role than usual due to the absence of Draymond Green, who missed the game due to an injury.
When speaking to the media after the game, Jokic had glowing praise for the Warriors rookie. The veteran big man noted how Jackson-Davis played at such a level that he didn’t appear to be a rookie talent. The first-year big has been impressive to begin his debut season in the league.
To be honest, he didn’t look like a rookie — maybe in some situations — (but) he doesn’t look like a rookie,” Jokic said. “They put him in a system, and he accepted the system. And he didn’t feel like he was like a rookie. Besides, maybe some situations”
Jackson-Davis has participated in six games so far, averaging 4.3 points and 2.7 rebounds while shooting 60% from the field. He has impressed with his positioning and defensive IQ. He makes the right reads, knows when to rotate over as a help defender, and when to stick with his man.
As a four-year college player, Jackson-Davis entered the NBA a more polished talent than a one-and-done prospect. The polish has allowed the rookie to hit the ground running. It will be interesting to see how his game evolves as the season progresses. Furthermore, getting praise from arguably the best player in the world will be a huge confidence boost for Jackson-Davis, which will aid his development.
