Jokic, the Chinese fans’ much-anticipated Yang Hansen!

Following this year’s All-Star Rookie Challenge, Chinese player Yang Hansen, who had an outstanding game and scored 10 points, talked about Jokic during a media interview.

He mentioned that Nikola Jokic is his role model and he is eager to kiss him.

When Jokic learned about this, he smiled and said, “That’s quite amusing, it might be a miscommunication.”

The reporter asked, “Would you accept his feelings?”

Jokic replied, “Yes, next time we face each other. Although I don’t think we have matched up yet, if we get the chance, I would give him a hug.”

The first meeting between these two didn’t keep fans waiting for long.

Today, the Trail Blazers hosted the Nuggets at home.

In the fourth quarter, with the game already decided, Yang Hansen came on and contributed on both ends of the floor, playing 8 minutes with 1 field goal made out of 4 attempts, 2 free throws made out of 6, totaling 4 points, 1 rebound, and 1 block.

As for Jokic, he shot 10 of 15 from the field, 3 of 4 from three-point range, and 9 of 11 from the free-throw line, finishing with 32 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists, 4 steals, and a plus-minus of +40.

In the end, the Nuggets dominated the Trail Blazers with a 157-103 victory.

Clearly, these two players are on completely different levels.

One is currently the best player in the league, while the other is a rookie at the bottom of the bench; comparing them directly isn’t really fair.

However, Jokic represents the future development path that Chinese fans hope Yang Hansen will follow.

Yang Hansen being picked 16th overall in the first round by the Trail Blazers is partly influenced by the league trend led by Jokic.

Jokic has redefined the center’s tactical role with his exceptional playmaking skills and high-post passing vision, becoming the league’s model “playmaking center.”

Yang Hansen showed similar passing ability and court vision during his time in the CBA, earning him the nickname “China’s Jokic” by some media outlets.

In recent years, the Trail Blazers have focused on developing big men with playmaking abilities.

Jokic’s successful style has provided them with a blueprint, and Yang Hansen’s skills align well with the team’s tactical needs, increasing his appeal.

Additionally, as a Chinese player, Yang Hansen’s skill set and development background share some similarities with Jokic.

The Trail Blazers may also aim to expand their presence in the Chinese market by drafting him, while aligning with the league’s growing emphasis on international players and new-style centers.

Nonetheless, my opinion remains unchanged:Jokic is a genius.

Geniuses cannot be replicated.