NBA Hall Of Famer Claims Nikola Jokic Is Outplaying Everyone, Even MVP Favorite Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Nikola Jokic addresses Denver's recent winning streak
Nikola Jokic (Photo by Isaiah J. Downing/Imagn Images)

Nikola Jokic has once again proven why he is considered one of the premier players in the NBA. He put his offensive brilliance to work during the Denver Nuggets’ recent victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder and intensified the MVP debate against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

During the Thunder game, Jokic put up an MVP-level performance. The giant Serbian got off with 35 points on 15-of-20 shooting while dishing out eight assists and committing only one turnover. This complete offensive display helped the Nuggets avenge their previous loss to the Thunder. However, NBA Hall of Fame Isiah Thomas seemed the most impressed with Jokic’s performance.

“Even if SGA is the MVP, nobody is playing better basketball than Nikola Jokic,” Thomas said as per Denver Sports Analyst Swipa Cam.

Though, this endorsement comes at a crucial time in the league. Where on the one hand, Shai Gilgous-Alexander already has his fans and supporters vouching for him, Jokic has got a veteran take the charge for him.

In their last game, he seemed to prioritize passing, possibly affected by an elbow injury he sustained early on. However, against the Thunder, he shifted into scoring mode, aggressively looking for his shot and taking control of the game.

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Also Read: Nikola Jokic Gives Honest Assessment Of Nuggets’ Recent Winning Streak: “Maybe We Tricked Ourselves”

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Nikola Jokic Opens Up On MVP Debate Against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Breakdown of the Nuggets vs. Thunder matchup
Nikola Jokic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Chet Holmgren (Image Credit: Getty Images)

Nikola Jokic recently found himself in the thick of the MVP debate as he faced off against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. After delivering an impressive performance during the Nuggets’ 140-127 victory, Jokic made a striking admission.

He believes he’s playing the best basketball of his life. However, true to his humble nature, he stated that if his stellar play isn’t enough to secure a fourth MVP, he would gladly concede to Gilgeous-Alexander.

“This is my third or fourth year in a row, so … I don’t know. I cannot control it. I will say that I think I’m playing the best basketball of my life, so if that’s enough, it’s enough. If not, the guy (Shai) deserves it. He’s really amazing,” Jokic said.

Despite battling injuries, Jokic’s efficiency on the court was remarkable. He shot greatly from the field and excelled in critical moments, particularly in the fourth quarter, where he was flawless. Additionally, coach Michael Malone clearly supports him in the MVP race. According to him, Jokic’s remarkable stats speak volumes about his impact on the game.

Also Read: Is Nikola Jokic The Best Playmaking Center Ever? A Look At Nuggets Star’s Historic Assist Records