NBA legend and former All-Star Dwight Howard has reignited discussions about his defensive prowess by making a bold statement regarding reigning MVP Nikola Jokic. Speaking on KG Certified, Howard confidently asserted that if he were allowed to play under the same conditions as Jokic, the Nuggets superstar wouldn’t post the dominant numbers he’s known for.
“Everything was a message.”
Dwight Howard had the clamps on Nikola Jokic in the bubble in more ways than one 🔒
KG’s full sitdown with @DwightHoward is available now on the KG Certified YouTube. pic.twitter.com/5fj573hEqI
— All the Smoke Productions (@allthesmokeprod) November 19, 2024
“If they’d allow me to hoop like they allow him to hoop, I bet you he won’t have them numbers on me,” Howard declared, referring to the liberties he feels Jokic enjoys on the court.
Howard, celebrated as one of the best defenders in NBA history, played a key role in the Los Angeles Lakers’ 2020 championship run, famously slowing down Jokic during their playoff battles. While Howard’s last NBA stint was with the Lakers during the 2021-22 season, where he averaged 6.2 points and 5.9 rebounds per game, Jokic has been on a historic tear.
This season, Jokic is averaging a staggering 29.7 points, 13.7 rebounds, 11.7 assists, and 1.7 steals per game while shooting an impressive 56.4% from beyond the arc.
Howard’s remarks have sparked heated debates across social media, with fans and analysts weighing in on whether the three-time Defensive Player of the Year could truly contain Jokic in today’s game. Could Howard’s defensive legacy hold up against Jokic’s unmatched versatility, or is this a bold claim rooted in past glory? Stay tuned as the conversation unfolds.
