The Nuggets have more and more performed zone protection all through this collection to problem Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as a driver. It has taken numerous kinds, from 2-3 to 1-3-1 to a metamorphosis into man protection mid-possession. At its simplest, Jokic has been tasked with playing quarterback for the two defenders up top. “Bigs are all the time in control of communication. The zone is a complete different stage of communication,” Adelman stated. “I don’t suppose individuals understand — like, watching Bam (Adebayo) in Miami — the accountability of not being half of the particular play that’s occurring. You’re the individual that’s kicking individuals left and proper.” -via Denver Post / Might 17, 2025
