Nuggets center Nikola Jokic chosen to compete in skills challenge at NBA All-Star weekend

The Nuggets center was chosen to replace injured 76ers center Joel Embiid in the obstacle-course skills challenge that takes place Saturday.

Christian Clark

Feb. 15, 2017, 9:31 a.m.

Tweet from @NBA

Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic was already scheduled to participate in the BBVA Rising Stars Challenge at All-Star weekend in New Orleans. Now he’ll also be a part of the Taco Bell Skills Challenge.

Jokic was picked to replace injured 76ers center Joel Embiid in the obstacle-course skills challenge that takes place Saturday.

Jokic is averaging averaging 16.3 points, 8.8 rebounds and 4.3 assists this season. He’s been on a tear since becoming Denver’s starting center Dec. 15. He’s averaging 20.8 points, 10.2 rebounds and 5.6 assists on 61.2 percent shooting in that time.

The Taco Bell Skills Challenge tests players on their dribbling, passing and outside shooting skills. Eight players will compete in it. Jokic will round out a field that includes Anthony Davis, DeMarcus Cousins, Gordon Hayward, Isaiah Thomas, John Wall, Devin Booker and Kristaps Porzingis.

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