DENVER , CO - APRIL 6: Nikola Jokic (15) of the Denver Nuggets spins to the cup as Deni Avdija (8) of the Portland Trail Blazers defends during the first quarter at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado on Monday, April 6, 2026. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
DENVER , CO - APRIL 6: Nikola Jokic (15) of the Denver Nuggets spins to the cup as Deni Avdija (8) of the Portland Trail Blazers defends during the first quarter at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado on Monday, April 6, 2026. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
Portland Trail Blazers star Deni Avdija recently appeared on the Draymond Green show, where he spoke at length with the Golden State Warriors veteran about several key topics.
At one point, Green asked Avdija to name the toughest player he’s ever had to guard, and Avdija named Nikola Jokic. Here’s an excerpt from the transcript of their conversation on the show.
Avdija: “You know, every time I switch on to Jokic, I’m like, ‘What the hell am I supposed to do?’ And I’m strong, but this guy is strong, smart, and can pass.”
Green: “He’s nimble, can roll off your body.”
Avdija: “And he has these touch floaters from every angle. Then I’m like, ‘What am I supposed to do?’ I think he’s the toughest cover because usually I don’t guard him one-on-one, either.”
Green: “He is the toughest cover in the league for sure, at least that I have to face. Maybe Steph or something.”
Avdija: “But that’s what I’m saying. There’s no one else. For me, I think it’s him.”
In his NBA career, Deni Avdija has faced Nikola Jokic 15 times, with a 4-11 record against the Serbian star. Even the league’s best defenders fear Jokic because of his offensive versatility.
The Serbian star can overwhelm opponents in the post, break down defenses with elite passing, and create scoring opportunities with his gentle touch. It’s understandable why Avdija views him as the hardest cover given his range of skills.
As it turns out, Nikola Jokic and Deni Avdija could have been international teammates if the Israeli All-Star chose to represent his Yugoslav roots, which are presently in Serbia. But in March 2026, Avdija cleared up the rumors after a Trail Blazers game.
“Obviously, Serbia is a great team, and they’ve got great players, and obviously I would fit there,” Avdija admitted. “But I grew up in Israel. My whole family is there. I love Serbia. I love watching them play. I’ve visited multiple times. I have a lot of family there.”
“But, at the end of the day, I got to choose where I grew up. When I was 16, it was a different time, and I was a different player. So, back then, I didn’t really think I could participate at this level. And it ended up being that I could, but I guess it’s too late, and I’m happy with my choice.”
Even though Avdija ultimately chose to play for Israel, the prospect of him and Jokic playing together for Serbia remains a fascinating hypothetical in international basketball.
Both players have made a name for themselves as top NBA stars, and Deni Avdija’s respect for Nikola Jokic reinforces the Serbian center’s incredible influence on the game.