Nikola Jokic’s Greatness: Why Are We So Silent?

DENVER, Colorado – Nikola Jokic has been performing at an MVP level with the Denver Nuggets, but lately, his exceptional play has become almost routine for fans and analysts alike. Through seven games this season, he has registered an impressive five triple-doubles, including a recent performance with 33 points, 15 rebounds, and 16 assists in a win against the Miami Heat.

This remarkable feat would usually spark conversations and debates, but Jokic’s continued excellence has instead become background noise in the league filled with new stars and storylines. Players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Victor Wembanyama have garnered attention for their impressive performances, while Jokic quietly maintains an extraordinary standard.

While many superstars command attention with flashy plays, Jokic’s game relies on precision and intelligence. His ability to dissect defenses while making difficult basketball maneuvers effortless has led some to wonder if fans have inadvertently grown complacent with his greatness.

Throughout his career, Jokic has consistently averaged around 26 points, 12 rebounds, and 9 assists per game, leading the Nuggets to sustained success, including the 2023 NBA Championship. Despite these milestones, there is a growing sense of ‘voter fatigue’ around his achievements, as past successes overshadow his current contributions.

The Nuggets’ quiet offseason, which included integral roster moves and the return of key players like Bruce Brown, has also contributed to their being overlooked. Jokic continues to orchestrate the team’s offense, showing an adept ability to find teammates, while new additions aim to complement his playstyle.

Notably, his teammate Aaron Gordon highlights Jokic’s defensive contributions, pointing out that NBA fans often overlook his impact on that end of the floor. So far this season, Jokic has achieved a career-high in steals, averaging 2.3 per game.

With a strategically improved roster, including the addition of Jonas Valanciunas as a strong backup center and the return of healthy players like Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon, the Nuggets are positioned for another strong season. Under the direction of head coach David Adelman, Jokic leads a team that is slowly creeping back into title contention, providing fans with exceptional basketball to appreciate.

As the season progresses, it’s crucial for fans to acknowledge Jokic’s contributions, as his brand of greatness is redefining the possibilities for centers in the NBA.