Nikola Jokić has long been considered one of the most unique players in NBA history and this season has been solidifying his status as a game-changer. 

The Denver Nuggets' three-time MVP has not only set new records but has also redefined what it means to be a center in modern basketball. 

With his blend of size, skill, and ability to create plays, Jokić continues to break traditional expectations and pushes the game in new directions.  

Historic Night Against the Hornets

On February 20, 2025, Jokić once again made history in a dominant 129-115 victory over the Charlotte Hornets. 

He recorded 29 points, 17 rebounds, and 9 assists, narrowly missing another triple-double. The standout statistic of the night was his career-high 14 three-point attempts, breaking records of most three-point attempts in a single quarter, half, and entire game.

His performance against the Hornets was just another example of how his game continues to evolve, further blurring the lines between positions in basketball.  

Breaking Records Throughout the Season 

This season has been one of milestones for Jokić, as he has continued to write his name in the record books.

Jokić became the quickest player in NBA history to record 15,000 points, 7,500 rebounds, and 5,000 assists in just 709 games. This record was previously held by Larry Bird, who achieved these marks in 799 games. 

This achievement made him only the second center to ever record 5,000 assists in the NBA, alongside Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

On December 7, 2024, in a game against the Washington Wizards, he also scored 56 points, achieving a career-high record.

Jokić has been making history with his playmaking—a remarkable showcase as a center as he ranks second in the league with 10.2 assists per game and shows an impressive ability to read the game. 

The MVP Race 

The MVP race this season remains highly competitive, with Jokić facing big contenders like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Luka Dončić, and Giannis Antetokounmpo. 

With Denver Nuggets previously facing an unimpressive run of games at the beginning of the season, Jokić sees himself back as a top contender as he aided his team to achieve a winning streak of 9 games. 

This also puts the Nuggets once again in contention for the NBA championship, currently ranked second in the Western division below Oklahoma City Thunder.