In the world of the NBA, talent is abundant, but when it comes to choosing the best player currently, there is nearly unanimous consent: Nikola Jokic is regarded as the undisputed leader of the league. In the current 2023/24 season, the star of the Denver Nuggets is topping the player rankings. Jokic confidently holds the first position in the rankings of The Ringer, CBS Sports, and HoopsHype. ESPN placed him second, giving preference to Giannis Antetokounmpo, but the difference between the two stars is only marginal.
Jokic, a two-time MVP, five-time NBA All-Star, NBA champion, and Finals MVP, defies the stereotypical expectations of what the best player in the league should be. Many NBA stat betting enthusiasts often place bets on Nikola Jokic’s statistics for points, rebounds, and assists. Favorable conditions for such bets are offered by the bookmaker Mostbet – https://mostbetlive.com/cz/. Let’s delve into what makes Jokic so unique.
One of the Greatest Players in History?
Jokic stands as one of the most dominant centers in history. In nearly every game, this basketball player has a significant chance of achieving a triple-double. Possessing physical strength capable of stretching the defense both at mid-range and beyond the perimeter, Jokic is recognized as one of the greatest playmakers in history. Despite some defensive shortcomings, he has demonstrated his effectiveness in the right system. Jokic is already considered one of the most respected players in history. After leading the Nuggets to the championship in 2023, he was ranked 19th among the greatest basketball players in NBA history, surpassing Jerry West and Dirk Nowitzki but trailing Moses Malone and Oscar Robertson. However, the best is yet to come for Nikola.
All-Star Performance in 2018/19 Season
Becoming an All-Star participant in the 2018/19 season, Jokic averaged 23.7 points and 8.1 assists per game with a shooting accuracy of 56.3%. Although his three-point shooting percentage fluctuated, he possesses the ability to stretch the defense both at mid-range and beyond the perimeter. Standing at 6-11 with a weight of 284 pounds, Jokic poses a threat to most defenders with their backs to the basket, thanks to his excellent touch and footwork. The only player who can rival his volume and efficiency in the low post in recent seasons is Joel Embiid of the 76ers.
Threat in Pick-and-Rolls
Jokic is also a serious threat in pick-and-rolls. While you may not see him catching alley-oops, he can pick and pop at mid-range, and his floater is considered one of the best in the game. No player can successfully defend Jokic one-on-one. Even Anthony Davis and Bam Adebayo, the best interior defenders in the NBA, couldn’t stop him in the 2023 playoffs.
Unmatched Versatility
However, pairing two defenders against Jokic doesn’t solve the problem. The question now is whether Jokic is the best passing center in NBA history. His position is now being discussed not only among centers but among all players. Jokic knows no bounds in his game. He often outpaces the defense by a few steps, and even his teammates can’t keep up with the pace at which he processes the game. Thanks to him, intricate passes across the court seem effortless. He constantly finds the best option. Cut, and he will find you. The ball in Jokic’s hands doesn’t stick as much as other superstars. He quickly makes decisions and brings out the best in his teammates.