As the MVP race intensifies, Aaron Gordon is staunchly backing his teammate, Nikola Jokic, for a fourth MVP award. The Denver Nuggets’ superstar has already claimed the prestigious honor three times, but Gordon believes Jokic deserves another shot at it this season.
Speaking on FanDuel TV’s Run It Back, Gordon made his case by highlighting a key statistic: plus-minus. “When he’s on, it’s by far the best team in the league,” Gordon explained. “When he’s off? It’s ugly. You know what I mean? That stat alone tells you everything.”
Gordon went on to emphasize how much Jokic has improved since last season. “Yo, he got MVP last year, and he’s even better this year,” said Gordon. “All of his numbers are up. He’s shooting the ball better, averaging a triple-double. His numbers are better than Shai’s.”
Jokic, the 30-year-old Serbian center, is putting up career-high averages of 29.8 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game in 36 minutes of play. His all-around contributions have led the Nuggets to a 37-19 record, placing them second in the Western Conference.
While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is leading the Oklahoma City Thunder with 32.5 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game, Gordon believes Jokic’s statistical dominance is undeniable. Gilgeous-Alexander’s Thunder lead the Western Conference with a 44-10 record, but Jokic’s influence on Denver’s success is profound.
Notably, Jokic trails Gilgeous-Alexander in total plus-minus, with +585 in 36 games compared to SGA’s +735 in 46 games. However, Jokic edges out Gilgeous-Alexander in plus-minus per game, with a 16.25 average versus 15.97. This speaks to Jokic’s impact on the court, even in fewer minutes.
Gordon also highlighted Jokic’s exceptional rebounding and playmaking skills. “He’s doing this while pulling 12 rebounds and 10 assists per game,” Gordon said. “What are we looking at here? This is one of the most ridiculous stat lines ever.”
Jokic’s all-around brilliance has made him a key figure in the MVP conversation once again. Gordon’s impassioned defense of his teammate showcases how much Jokic means to the Nuggets and his deserving case for a fourth MVP trophy.
As the race continues, Jokic’s name will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of the conversation. If he claims the award again, he would join an elite list of players with four or more MVPs, which includes:
- Michael Jordan – 5 MVPs
- LeBron James – 4 MVPs
- Bill Russell – 5 MVPs
- Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – 6 MVPs
- Magic Johnson – 3 MVPs
- Larry Bird – 3 MVPs
- Wilt Chamberlain – 4 MVPs
For now, Jokic’s incredible season continues to impress, and his teammates, including Gordon, are making sure his MVP case remains strong.
