Nikola Jokic, the Denver Nuggets’ prodigious center, has etched himself into the annals of basketball history by securing an extraordinary average of a triple-double for the 2024-2025 NBA season. This rare accomplishment positions him as just the third player in the lofty company of Oscar Robertson and Russell Westbrook, both of whom have previously established their dominance in this statistical realm. On a significant evening marked by the Nuggets’ impressive 117-109 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies, Jokic’s ability to contribute broadly was brought to the forefront when he notched his 700th assist, solidifying his place in history with a guarantee of a double-digit assist average.
Jokic’s dynamic performance, culminating in 26 points, 16 rebounds, and 13 assists that night, culminated in his 34th triple-double, drawing attention not only to his statistical prowess but also to his unique style of play. Unlike many who chase individual accolades, Jokic embodies a true team player, enhancing his teammates’ performance through his extraordinary vision and playmaking abilities. In the annals of NBA statistics, his 34 triple-doubles tie him for the fourth-most in a single season, a testament to his exceptional consistency and versatility.
The Unrivaled Versatility of Jokic
What sets Jokic apart in this elite club is not merely the numbers he compiles but the multifaceted way in which he influences a game. The Denver big man is the quintessential example of a modern basketball player—capable of scoring, rebounding, and facilitating plays simultaneously. As coach Chris Finch noted, “When you have a guy like Jokic, who creates so much offense for his teammates, everyone’s going to have really good looks if you don’t do the right things.” This observation encapsulates how Jokic’s unique skill set elevates not just his performance but that of everyone around him.
His now-certain attainment of double-digit assists marks a significant departure from his preceding averages; the previous season he hovered close to this threshold at 9.8 assists per game. This increase in playmaking not only showcases his growth as a player but also reflects a heightened understanding of his teammates’ capabilities. The Denver Nuggets, under his leadership, have been transformed into a potent offensive machine, capable of tearing through defenses with unselfish ball movement and calculated plays.
A Potential MVP Season on the Horizon
Jokic’s overwhelming dominance this season inevitably fuels discussions about the NBA’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. As stated by interim Nuggets coach David Adelman, “If he doesn’t win the MVP, it’s the greatest season of all time not to win the MVP.” This rhetoric reflects the sheer impact Jokic has made during the campaign. Competing for the title against players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander only heightens the drama surrounding his potential recognition. Should he achieve a scoring average hitting the 30-point mark, it would not only solidify his MVP candidacy but also place him in a select group sharing the unique distinction of averaging a 30-point triple-double; an achievement achieved only by Westbrook and Robertson.
A constant threat, Jokic has not only excelled in distribution and scoring, but he is also on track to establish career highs in critical categories such as three-pointers made and shooting percentage. His team’s reliance on him elevates the entire franchise’s potential, making it imperative for the Nuggets to rally around their leader as they navigate through critical matchups toward what they hope will be a postseason run.
The Legacy in the Making
With 164 career triple-doubles already under his belt, Jokic is poised to chase history as he approaches Westbrook’s ultimate record of 203. However, the true measure of a player’s impact transcends mere statistics. Jokic’s unique blend of intelligence, creativity, and humility redefines what it means to be a star in today’s game. This season is a manifestation of not just his hard work but also his profound understanding of the game, making him a joy to watch for fans and a nightmare for defenders.
In an era where the game is scrutinized through the lens of advanced metrics, Jokic’s play highlights an essential truth—basketball is a team sport, and his greatest contributions often manifest in how others perform. As he continues to reshape expectations, one wonders how much further he can push the boundaries of what a big man can achieve in this rapidly evolving sport. Jokic is not merely playing basketball; he is crafting a legacy, one assist at a time.