Nikola Jokić Believes He’s Playing the Best Basketball of His Career And He Just Might Be Right
A Historic Season for Nikola Jokić
When it comes to the NBA, few players command as much respect and admiration as Nikola Jokić. The Serbian superstar has established himself as one of the most dominant forces in modern basketball, and by his own admission, he believes he is currently playing the best basketball of his career. Looking at his unparalleled efficiency, leadership, and statistical dominance, it’s hard to argue with him.
From MVP awards to leading the Denver Nuggets to an NBA championship, Jokić has continuously evolved into a player that transcends traditional basketball roles. But what makes this season particularly special? Is he truly at the peak of his career, or is there still another level he can reach? Let’s take a deep dive into his outstanding performance, record-breaking stats, and the impact he has on the game.
Nikola Jokić’s Career Evolution: From Humble Beginnings to NBA Royalty
Nikola Jokić’s journey to basketball superstardom is one of the most unexpected and inspiring stories in NBA history. Drafted 41st overall in the 2014 NBA Draft, few expected him to become the face of a franchise, let alone a multiple-time MVP winner. His rise to the top is a testament to hard work, vision, and an elite understanding of the game.
1. Early Years and Development
Born in Sombor, Serbia, Jokić grew up playing basketball in a way that emphasized skill over athleticism. His basketball IQ, passing ability, and vision were honed early, and despite not having the prototypical physique of an NBA big man, he quickly proved that his unique style could dominate at the highest level.
2. Breakthrough and MVP Performances
Jokić steadily improved every season after joining the Nuggets in 2015. By 2021, he had claimed his first NBA MVP Award, becoming the first center since Shaquille O’Neal to do so. He followed up with another MVP in 2022, proving that his impact was not just a one-season wonder.
- 2021 MVP Stats: 26.4 PPG, 10.8 RPG, 8.3 APG
- 2022 MVP Stats: 27.1 PPG, 13.8 RPG, 7.9 APG
3. Winning an NBA Championship
The crowning achievement of his career so far came in 2023, when Jokić led the Denver Nuggets to their first-ever NBA Championship. Not only did he deliver historic playoff performances, but he also won Finals MVP, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players of his generation.
Why Jokić Believes He’s Playing the Best Basketball of His Career
Jokić’s belief that he is playing the best basketball of his career is supported by his statistical output, improved efficiency, and unmatched leadership. Here are some key reasons why he might be right:
1. Elite Statistical Performance
This season, Jokić has taken his game to another level, even surpassing his MVP-winning years in multiple categories:
- Points Per Game (PPG): Continues to hover around 26+ PPG while shooting at an efficient rate.
- Rebounds Per Game (RPG): Averaging 12+ RPG, showing his dominance on the boards.
- Assists Per Game (APG): Still one of the best passing big men in history, consistently delivering 8+ APG.
- Shooting Efficiency: Jokić has maintained a field goal percentage of over 55%, along with a high true shooting percentage (TS%).
His ability to maintain such an elite level of production while keeping turnovers low and improving defensively makes a compelling case for his claim.
2. Enhanced Leadership and Playmaking
While Jokić has always been a floor general, this season, he has fully embraced his role as the leader of the Denver Nuggets. He orchestrates the offense like a point guard while also controlling the paint like a dominant center. His ability to elevate his teammates is unmatched, and players like Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. have thrived under his leadership.
3. Defensive Improvements
One of the few criticisms of Jokić’s game in the past was his defensive ability. However, this season, he has taken major strides in rim protection, defensive positioning, and overall awareness. He may never be an elite shot-blocker, but his ability to impact the game without relying on sheer athleticism has made him an even more complete player.
4. The Nuggets’ Success and Championship Aspirations
The Denver Nuggets are once again one of the top teams in the Western Conference, and their championship defense is well underway. Jokić’s ability to maintain a high level of performance while ensuring the team operates efficiently further solidifies his claim that he is playing at his peak.
How Jokić Compares to NBA Legends
When discussing Nikola Jokić’s greatness, it’s only fair to compare him to some of the best big men in NBA history.
- Shaquille O’Neal – While Shaq dominated with size and power, Jokić dominates with finesse and IQ.
- Tim Duncan – Like Duncan, Jokić has a methodical approach and makes everyone around him better.
- Wilt Chamberlain – Both players revolutionized the center position in their respective eras.
- Dirk Nowitzki – Jokić’s ability to stretch the floor mirrors Nowitzki’s impact in changing the perception of big men.
In some ways, Jokić is a hybrid of all these legends, blending their skills in a way that makes him one of the most unique superstars the game has ever seen.
The Future: Can Jokić Get Even Better?
At just 29 years old, Nikola Jokić is in his prime. But is there room for even more growth?
- Adding More Range – While already a great shooter, Jokić could become even deadlier from beyond the arc.
- Further Defensive Improvement – If he continues to elevate his defense, he could be unstoppable.
- Multiple Championships – If Jokić adds more rings to his resume, his legacy as one of the greatest big men ever will be undeniable.
Is Jokić Right?
When Nikola Jokić says he is playing the best basketball of his career, he has the numbers, impact, and team success to back it up. With MVP-level performances, championship leadership, and statistical dominance, he is proving why he is one of the greatest players of this generation.
As the season progresses, the biggest question remains: Can he lead the Denver Nuggets to back-to-back championships? If he does, his claim of playing his best basketball might not only be true—it could be just the beginning of something even greater.
One thing is certain: Nikola Jokić is rewriting NBA history, and the best might still be yet to come.
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