As the NBA playoff race intensifies over the next few weeks, every game is becoming more crucial, especially for teams vying for a top-six seed to avoid the play-in tournament and secure home-court advantage for the postseason.
After an action-packed Wednesday night, Magic Johnson, former NBA legend and Hall of Famer, was quick to share his thoughts on the league's top players. Despite Shai Gilgeous-Alexander emerging as the MVP frontrunner this season, Johnson highlighted Nikola Jokic and Giannis Antetokounmpo as the two best players currently in the NBA.
"Reminds me of a pass I made back in the day against Utah. The Joker's passing and ability to score anywhere on the basketball court makes him the best player in the NBA along with Giannis!" Johnson said.
Reminds me of a pass I made back in the day against Utah The Joker's passing and ability to score anywhere on the basketball court makes him the best player in the NBA along with Giannis! https://t.co/i0FY6AqXwI
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) March 27, 2025
This season, Nikola Jokic is putting up remarkable numbers, averaging 29.3 points, 12.8 rebounds, 10.3 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. His shooting splits are impressive as well, with 57.6% from the field, 41.5% from beyond the arc, and 80.3% from the free-throw line.
With three MVP awards already to his name (2021, 2022, and 2024), Jokic is currently in the running for his fourth, sitting with the second-best odds according to DraftKings Sportsbook.
The Denver Nuggets are locked in a fierce battle for the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference, with the Houston Rockets, Memphis Grizzlies, and Los Angeles Lakers all within 2 1/2 games.
On the other hand, the Milwaukee Bucks have been grappling with a significant setback, as Damian Lillard is out indefinitely with a blood clot in his calf.
However, Giannis Antetokounmpo has continued to carry the team, helping the Bucks maintain the No. 6 spot in the East, just two games behind the No. 4 seed. Giannis is averaging 30.2 points, 12.0 rebounds, 5.9 assists, 1.2 blocks, and 0.8 steals per game, shooting an impressive 60.0% from the field.
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This story was originally published March 27, 2025 at 3:52 PM.