No Player in NBA History Has Done What Jokic Just Did
No one else has ever been a top 10 player in all these four statistical categories during a NBA single-season—and the Denver Nuggets star heads to the playoffs as a top three.
The three-time MVP has been having the best season of his career, breaking records non-stop. His record-breaking performances has been putting him as a great candidate for this season’s MVP, strongly competing with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander from Oklahoma City Thunder.
In the 2024-25 regular season, the Denver Nuggets superstar became the first player ever to be in the top 10 players in points, rebounds, assists, and steals per game. Jokic managed, in fact, to be a top 3 player in all four main categories.
Jokic’s 2024-2025 Season So Far
Jokic’s season has been nothing short of extraordinary. Averaging nearly 30 points per game, he ranks among the league’s elite scorers. His dominance on the glass is equally impressive, securing a spot in the top three for rebounds per game.
With over 10 assists per game, he functions as the primary offensive catalyst for the Nuggets – a role rarely, if ever, filled by a center. Adding to this remarkable versatility is his defensive contribution, as he ranks in the top 10 in steals per game, an uncommon achievement for a player of his position.
Historically, centers have been the anchors of defense and rebounding, focusing their efforts near the basket. Jokic breaks this mold entirely. He brings an ability to see the floor, deliver precise passes, and create scoring opportunities for teammates.
Is Jokic the Best in NBA History?
All-time greats known for their all-around games—Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Russell Westbrook—have come close to ranking in the top 10 in three of these categories but never all four simultaneously. Jokic stands alone in this regard.
In their closest chances, Michael Jordan ranked first in points, ninth in rebounds, and tenth in assists but missed steals (13th). LeBron James was third in points, tenth in assists, and tenth steals but not within top 10 in rebounds (24th). Other top players in history faced similar situations, but Jokic is the first to crack all four.
As the Denver Nuggets continue their quest for an NBA championship, Jokic’s unprecedented all-around excellence remains their greatest weapon. In redefining what it means to be a center, Nikola Jokic is not just changing the game—he is elevating it to a new level.
