Overview
- Jokić made the prediction after Thursday's 128–109 Denver win over Toronto when he recorded 32 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists in three quarters.
- He said officials now allow more pushing and grabbing in the low post than on the perimeter, which makes interior play more tiring and less likely to be called as a foul.
- Jokić argued that permitted physicality lets smaller defenders negate bigger players, removing the traditional size advantage that once rewarded back-to-the-basket skill.
- His view carries weight because he is a three-time MVP, 2023 Finals MVP and one of the few modern centers who still thrives as a scoring and playmaking post hub.
- The comments reflect a longer shift toward perimeter offense, switching defenses and small-ball lineups and signal that changes to officiating or coaching could further shrink post play in coming years.