Nikola Jokic’s rare blend of vintage post play and modern versatility continues to earn admiration from former NBA stars.
Speaking on The Pat McAfee Show, Jamal Crawford said, “He’s the one guy in this era who’s blended the old school of the 90’s and this new generation.”
Jokic, 30, is one of three finalists for the 2024-25 NBA Most Valuable Player award alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The Denver Nuggets center is aiming to secure his fourth MVP trophy, having previously won in 2021, 2022, and 2024.
He averaged 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game during the regular season while leading Denver to a 50-32 record and the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference.
Crawford’s comment highlights Jokic’s unique ability to dominate physically in the paint while orchestrating the offense like a point guard.
Jokic’s playoff numbers reflect that command, as he’s putting up 26.3 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 9.6 assists in 40.3 minutes per game through the Nuggets’ first eight postseason contests.
Crawford, who played 20 seasons in the NBA, is widely respected for his basketball IQ and is one of only a few players to score 50 points in four different decades.
