Jokic gave the Cavaliers an early lead, and turning around, Alderich received the ball in the low post to back down TT.
Popovich was using him as if he were Duncan in his prime.
Alderich didn't disappoint either, hitting his signature post-up spin and slight fadeaway shot after receiving the ball.
The Cavaliers' offense saw Irving signaling a play, rewarding Jokic with a low post strategy.
Jokic quickly backed down Duncan for position.
The crowd immediately erupted in cheers.
Jokic had already shined by scoring on Duncan one-on-one earlier, and now he was establishing position with such resolve; he didn't at all seem like a rookie.
Popovich then stood up and walked to the sideline, and the gesture he made was quite interesting; he signaled the Spurs not to help on defense.
If Duncan couldn't defend a rookie, he might as well retire on the spot.
"That's not a good choice," Kenny Smith interjected with objectivity.
In fact, Jokic couldn't really move Duncan in the low post.
