Dallas Mavericks: Dirk Nowitzki shares his thoughts on Nikola Jokic

Dallas Mavericks GOAT Dirk Nowitzki shares his thoughts on Nikola Jokic

Dallas Mavericks basketball will never quite be the same without Dirk Nowitzki. Yes, the team had a run of success starting in the mid-80s, but that ended in 1990. The Mavs quickly slipped into a decade long playoff drought and became one of the least popular teams in the league. Dirk Nowitzki changed all that. He made the team a winner, brought Dallas a championship, and was a trailblazer to a new era of NBA basketball.

Dirk’s retirement left the Mavericks with a massive hole. His jersey retirement, statue, and Hall of Fame induction are coming, but it may never feel like enough. Nowitzki was that good on the court and even better off of it. That is what made him truly special.

Fans have seen the Nuggets overcome two 3-1 deficits in the 2020 NBA playoffs. Led by Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, Denver is in the Western Conference Finals, and it has taken more than a few incredible moments to reach that stage. The Nuggets have been clutch and wreaking havoc. Jokic’s amazing play has drawn Dirk comparisons, so the Mavs legend weighed in.

Dallas Mavericks GOAT Dirk Nowitzki shares his thoughts on the Nikola Jokic comparisons

ESPN’s Zach Lowe wrote an outstanding piece on how Murray and Jokic are dissecting defenses in the playoffs. Fans should give it read. Here is the quote from Nowitzki about the Jokic comparison.

"“Damn, That’s a compliment. I wish I had his skill set. His passing is so good it’s a joke. I unfortunately always wanted to score and not pass.”"

Dirk showed off his humility and incredible sense of humor again. It is massive praise for Jokic from one of the all-time greats. The Nuggets’ big man has been incredible in the playoffs. It was awesome to hear from Dirk on what he is seeing.

Expect Dirk Nowitzki to be back with the Dallas Mavericks in some way when he is ready. It is only fitting that he returns to the organization for his next chapter. Stay tuned for plenty more on Dirk and the Mavs this offseason.