By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Jsuuf Nurkic going through his seventh NBA season has largely been the defensive anchor for the Portland Trail Blazers. He discussed his goal of becoming the Defensive Player of the Year following the win against the Utah Jazz on Wednesday evening.
“I am trying to put together a season staying healthy and being in shape. Do all the right things so I can be the Defensive Player of the Year. That is my goal in this league,” noted the Bosnian big, “I really think I am capable of doing that. Obviously, with the guards we have in our normal lineup, there is not a lot of guys to protect the rim.”
The 26-year-old center is not included among the leading candidates for the Defensive Player of the Year nod. The previous recipient Giannis Antetokounmpo, two-time winner Rudy Gobert, and others are ahead in early predictions. “I feel people underestimate me sometimes. I really feel I am the best defensive player on this team. That’s what I am trying to do,” he added.
“The system makes great players and the great players make a good system,” he mentioned diving into his role on the court, “For me, I always have the capability to do it. It’s just a matter of time when I am going to get the chance. I think Portland gave me the chance. Most of the time, being in the position to succeed is the most important in this league. It’s all about timing as far as the defensive end.”
The Blazers, on a five-game winning streak, are currently tied with the Dallas Mavericks in fifth place of the Western Conference. They look likely to ensure a spot directly in the 2021 Playoffs but have a couple of tough games left to wrap up the Regular Season, taking on the Phoenix Suns on the road and hosting the Denver Nuggets.
“If you ask me If we can beat anybody in this league. Of course,” he said looking ahead to the postseason and considering his previous campaigns at Portland, “We have never been in a matchup scared of any team.”
Nurkic is averaging 11.4 points, 8.7 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 0.9 blocks, and 0.9 steals per contest over 34 appearances this season. Injuries this season and in previous campaigns have been holding him back, but feels healthy nearing the end of the Regular Season and the start of the Playoffs.
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