Nikola Jokic believes he is performing at the highest level of his career as he leads the Denver Nuggets in their push for a top playoff seed.
The three-time MVP is averaging 28.9 points, 13 rebounds, and 10.5 assists per game while positioning himself in the thick of the MVP race.
Despite Shai Gilgeous-Alexander emerging as the frontrunner, Jokic remains one of the most dominant players in the league, making history along the way.
According to The Athletic’s Fred Katz and Tony Jones, the Serbian center is on pace to become the second player since 1962 to average a triple-double for a full season.
He also ranks in the top three in points, rebounds, and assists, a statistical feat that has never been achieved over an entire campaign.
“This is my third or fourth year in a row, so I’m really — I don’t know. I cannot control it,” Jokic said. “Obviously, I think I’m playing the best basketball of my life. So if that’s enough, it’s enough. If not, the guy deserves it. He’s really amazing.”
The Nuggets currently hold the second-best record in the Western Conference at 42-23. Oklahoma City leads the West with a league-best 53-12 mark, fueled by Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP-caliber campaign.
The Thunder star is averaging 32.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game, making him a strong contender to win the award.
Jokic’s impact goes beyond the numbers, as he remains the engine of Denver’s offense with his unique blend of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking.
The Nuggets have relied on his leadership, especially with the team not being as dominant as its championship run.
Although Denver trails Oklahoma City by 11 games, Jokic’s consistency has kept the Nuggets among the top contenders in the West.
The MVP debate remains a tight race, with Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring explosion and Jokic’s all-around excellence making it a compelling discussion.
