Denver last playoffs and this regular season so far have shown another level of defense to in the past playing at a borderline top 5 level in both instances
However many still view Jokic’s rim protection as a major issue and simply think Denver have done a good job of hiding this
Personally I’d probably say he’s obviously not All Defense level or anything but at this point is probably someone between a neutral and moderate positive overall
liability
He’s an above average defender overall.
One on one against bigs he is really good due to size and while some guys blow by him it doesn’t happened often.
Better than people think at protecting the rim but still not good there over the course of a game but he does have his moments especially when the game is on the line. If someone gets a head of stream going to the cup tho he doesn’t really contest.
Great at playing passings lanes and getting steals on ball.
Bad perimeter defenders if left on a island.
Can double at the level of the screen but is pretty slow recovering to his man after.
Reluctant at times to switch off of his man even if he is closer to the guy taking the shot.
Great defensive IQ and amazing defensive rebounder.
Has his strengths and weaknesses but I think he is better than people give him credit for
He’s in the middle for the most part, but he’s a positive when he needs to be. The fact is, the Nuggets don’t need him to be some incredible rim protector in order for the team to win.