Nikola Jokic has already cemented himself as one of basketball’s all-time greats. With three NBA MVPs, a Finals MVP, and leading the Denver Nuggets to their first-ever championship, Jokic has seemingly achieved everything on the court. Even if he retired tomorrow (let’s hope not!), his legacy as one of the top 10 players ever would remain undeniable.
This season, Jokic is somehow surpassing his previous high standards. His stats are astronomical—nearly averaging a 30-point triple-double—and he dominates almost every major statistical category. His consistency over the past four to five years places him among the elite in NBA history.
However, one of Jokic’s most remarkable feats this season isn’t reflected in his stats: rejuvenating Russell Westbrook. Players like LeBron James, Kawhi Leonard, and James Harden couldn’t make it work with Westbrook, but Jokic has embraced and elevated the former MVP.
Westbrook has rediscovered his rhythm with Denver, turning into a key contributor. He’s been so impactful that discussions about him being a Sixth Man of the Year candidate or even an All-Star have surfaced. Once cast aside by multiple teams, including the Rockets, Lakers, and Wizards, Westbrook is now thriving in Denver’s system.
The Jokic-Westbrook tandem has been transformative. Denver’s offense features a two-man game between the pair, with Westbrook cutting and scoring at a career-high efficiency (9% of his possessions result in 1.35 points per play). The Nuggets lead the league in assists, with a record-setting 31.8 per game, largely thanks to their chemistry.
Westbrook’s resurgence in Denver has been so significant that head coach Michael Malone faces serious decisions about starting and closing games with him. Should the Nuggets capture another title with Westbrook playing a pivotal role, it would stand as one of Jokic’s most extraordinary accomplishments.