Prepare to be astonished as we journey through the captivating “what if” scenarios of the 2014 NBA Draft, where an overlooked prospect would rewrite the NBA history books. Nikola Jokic, the Denver Nuggets’ prized superstar center, NBA Finals MVP and driving force behind Denver’s Championship run of 2022-2023 emerged from the shadows of the second round to become an absolute force on the court. It’s time to explore the jaw-dropping possibilities for each NBA team that passed on the hidden gem, as we imagine how their destinies might have transformed had they recognized Jokic’s immense talent and selected him.
- The Orlando Magic (12th Pick):
Oh, the excitement that could have surged through Orlando had they embraced the Joker! Jokic’s incredible passing and scoring prowess would have breathed new life into the Magic’s offense, elevating their young core to heights never seen before. Picture a frontcourt powerhouse led by Jokic, and seeing Aaron Gordon cutting to open shots from the beginning of his career. Jokic would have made real careers out of Victor Oladipo, Elfrid Payton and Tobias Harris, and propelling the Magic to the pinnacle of the Eastern Conference, leaving opponents stunned and fans astonished.
- The Chicago Bulls (16th Pick):
Oh, what a missed opportunity for the Chicago Bulls! Jokic’s transcendent playmaking would have revolutionized their game and electrified the United Center. Imagine the passionate Bulls faithful witnessing a Jokic-led twin tower squad with peak Joakim Noah, a perfect blend of offence and defence battling their way to Eastern Conference supremacy. Their inside presence along with the fiery play of Jimmy Butler would be an intense and highly successful squad.
- The Toronto Raptors (20th Pick):
The Raptors, oh how they must ponder the road not taken. Jokic’s dynamic playmaking from the center position would have set Toronto on an even grander stage. With Jokic orchestrating alongside their star guards Demar Derozan and Kyle Lowry, the Raptors could have achieved even greater playoff glory and may not have even needed to take a chance on Kawhi Leonard to take them over the top.
- The Milwaukee Bucks (31st Pick):
Can you imagine the unstoppable force of Jokic alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo? The Bucks missed a golden chance to forge a twin-tower dynasty! With Jokic’s inside-outside brilliance complementing Giannis’ athleticism, the Bucks might have redefined the term “dominance,” leaving rivals and fans alike in awe of their sheer power.
- The Cleveland Cavaliers (33rd Pick):
Amidst LeBron James’ return, the Cavaliers let go of an opportunity that could have altered their championship journey. Picture Jokic maximizing LeBron’s potential and guiding the Cavaliers to even more triumphant seasons, leaving NBA pundits and fans astonished at their unrivaled tandem.
- The New York Knicks (34th Pick):
Oh, the regret the Knicks must feel for not picking up Jokic at the 34th pick! His diverse skill set and basketball IQ could have rekindled the hope and passion of New York’s fervent fan base. Picture a frontcourt of Carmelo Anthony, Amare Stoudemire and Jokic. Powerhouse shotmaking, playmaking and big bodies in the middle. Imagine a revitalized Knicks team, driven by Jokic’s brilliance, conquering the Eastern Conference and re-establishing their legacy, leaving the NBA world in awe.
- The Boston Celtics (36th Pick):
The Celtics’ decision to pass on Jokic deprived them of an offensive maestro at the center position. Oh, how they could have unleashed the Joker’s brilliance within their team-oriented style of play, creating a mesmerizing force that would have left competitors astonished at their seamless play.
Conclusion: The Untold Impact of the Missed Gem
The saga of Nikola Jokic serves as a reminder that greatness can emerge from unexpected places. Each team that passed on the Joker faced an astonishing “what if” moment, where a single decision could have rewritten their history in gold ink. As Jokic’s brilliance continues to dazzle the NBA, his tale resonates with fans, underscoring the enduring allure and magic of basketball.
In this realm of hidden talents and unpredictable drafts, the journey of Nikola Jokic stands as a timeless testament to the untold impact of the missed gem that could have forever transformed the course of NBA history. The Joker’s rise from obscurity to superstardom leaves us all astounded, proving that within the realm of basketball, the most extraordinary stories are often born from the most unexpected beginnings.