Chapter 303: Doesn’t Look Like One.
Jokić scored the first points for the Cavs, and on the next possession, Aldridge posted up TT on the low block.
Popovich was using Aldridge as if he were prime Tim Duncan.
And Aldridge lived up to that expectation — catching the ball, turning for his signature fadeaway, and sinking the shot with ease.
Back on offense, Kyrie waved his hand to call a play, signaling for Jokić to get a post-up opportunity.
It was a rare 'reward' for the rookie.
Jokić quickly established position, backing down Duncan.
The crowd at Quicken Loans Arena roared in approval.
They'd just seen Nikola score on Duncan one-on-one. Now he was demanding the ball again with confidence.
It was hard to believe this guy was a rookie.
Popovich, standing near the sideline, made a gesture to his players: No help defense.
If Duncan couldn't stop a rookie by himself, he might as well retire on the spot.