While the Western Conference All-Stars gallivanted and goofed around during an open “practice” that was conceived more as a zoo exhibit for fans, Nikola Jokic drifted to the scorer’s table at Oakland Arena. The reigning NBA Coach of the Year was leaning against it, passing the time. The reigning MVP wanted to join him.
Jokic and Thunder coach Mark Daigneault spent a sizable portion of the practice window in conversation, “talking ball, just chopping it up,” Daigneault said afterward. Jokic later described spending time with Oklahoma City’s coaching staff as “maybe my highlight of the All-Star (weekend).