The Denver Nuggets are 12-10 and only a shell of the team they've been in recent years – particularly during their title run in 2023. That isn't the case for Serbian superstar Nikola Jokic however. Despite having won three of the past four MVP trophies, he's posting a career-year for the Nuggets.
In the past couple of games alone, Jokic has been on another world. He's scoring at a high clip while pulling down rebounds and nailing 3-pointers – showing his unique, diverse skill set.
While the Nuggets split their last two games 1-1 with a bad loss to a three-win Washington Wizards team, Jokic made NBA history, as the league announced after the club's 141-111 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on the road.
In two straight games, Jokic has posted more than 45 points, ten rebounds and five assists in two straight games, adding him into elite company with Elgin Baylor and Wilt Chamberlain.
"Three players have ever had 45+ points, 10+ rebounds, and 5+ assists in consecutive games: Jokić, Wilt and Elgin," the NBA shared on social media.
Jokic's season has been one of the best in his career, and he's had to increase his scoring volume as Denver's depth has deteriorated over the seasons. This season, the Nuggets superstar is averaging 32.3 points, 13.6 rebounds and 10.2 assists per game. This would be Jokic's first season averaging a triple-double, though he's come close on many occasions.
While the Nuggets' record and future results may close the Serbian's MVP case, he's certainly deserving, as are his statistical averages, though a player with a better record could get in his way.
As mentioned, Jokic has claimed three of the last four MVP victories. Back in the day, LeBron James – regarded as the best player in league history – claimed four MVPs in five seasons, a feat that Jokic could also achieve if Denver can right the ship this season.
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This story was originally published December 11, 2024, 7:00 AM.