Could Nikola Jokic have a successor? The Nuggets' star discusses who might be the next big thing.

Jeremy Beren

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The next Nikola Jokic? Nuggets star talks about possible heir apparent image

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

TL;DR

  • Denver Nuggets defeated New Orleans Pelicans 125-118, despite Derik Queen's impressive performance.
  • Rookie Derik Queen's 30-point game drew comparisons to Nikola Jokic's playstyle.
  • Pelicans acquired Queen with a trade of substantial assets, including a 2026 first-round pick.
  • Nikola Jokic, a three-time MVP, sees potential in Queen's unique and skilled game.

The Denver Nuggets's victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday evening was hardly unexpected. Denver stands as an NBA title contender, while New Orleans just fired its head coach is in the midst of a rebuilding phase.

The Nuggets secured a hard-fought 125-118 victory against the Pelicans at Smoothie King Center. Despite Nikola Jokic achieving his third straight triple-double, the Pelicans' rookie center Derik Queen may have outplayed him.

The Pelicans' acquisition of Queen in June, following their trade of substantial assets, has piqued considerable fan interest. To secure the No. 13 selection and draft the Maryland freshman, New Orleans' basketball chief Joe Dumars traded the No. 23 pick along with an unprotected 2026 first-round choice to the Atlanta Hawks.

But if Queen keeps playing like this, the Pelicans will live with this trade.

Jokic sees Queen in his game

Following Queen's 30-point performance on 12-of-18 shooting, complemented by nine rebounds and four assists, Jokic told reporters noted a resemblance to his own game in the 20-year-old, a prospect that could unnerve supporters of rival Western Conference contenders.

"He's unorthodox. Great touch around the rim (and) feel for the game," Jokic said. "It's good to see somebody different."

Jokic too was "somebody different."

Nikola Jokic, a three-time NBA MVP, has transformed the game of basketball, excelling as a center who consistently achieves triple-doubles. However, unlike Queen, Jokic did not arrive in the NBA with significant anticipation; he was selected 41st overall, and ESPN was notably airing a Taco Bell advertisement during the Nuggets' 2014 draft selection of him.

It's a testament to Queen's resilience, having struggled to score in single digits for three consecutive games, that a legendary player in the league's history considers him a potential successor. At his peak, Queen demonstrates generational talent; even if he doesn't reach that level, the foresight of Dumars and Pelicans general manager Troy Weaver remains evident.

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Staff Writer