In the unpredictable world of the NBA, one constant remains a spectacle: the unparalleled brilliance of Nikola Jokić. The Denver Nuggets’ Serbian sensation is not just leading the charge; he’s orchestrating a symphony of statistical marvels, once again firmly seated at No. 1 in the Kia Race to the MVP Award. His unique blend of steadfast efficiency and newfound dominance has captivated fans and analysts alike, begging the question: is there any limit to his greatness?

From Underdog to Unanimous MVP Frontrunner

It’s easy to forget a time when Nikola Jokić wasn’t widely regarded as one of the league’s top-tier talents. Cast your mind back to the peculiar 2019-20 NBA season – a year marred by pandemic interruptions and a ‘bubble’ restart. During that chaotic period, while undoubtedly a good player, Jokić wasn’t the force we know today. He didn’t start in the All-Star Game, wasn’t First Team All-NBA, and finished a surprising ninth in MVP voting. Jamal Murray often stole the spotlight for Denver.

Fast forward to today, and that season seems like a distant, almost ‘prehistoric’ memory. What we’ve witnessed ever since is nothing short of a colossal NBA takeover. With three Kia MVPs under his belt and two runner-up finishes, Jokić has not just ascended; he has redefined what it means to be a dominant center in the modern era.

The “Joker’s” Unmatched Skill Set

This season, much like the previous five, sees Jokić operating as a veritable triple-double machine. He’s widely considered the best passing center ever, seamlessly blending elite scoring and rebounding into his game. His footwork and hands work in impeccable sync, while his court vision is nothing short of binocular-like, allowing him to dissect defenses with surgical precision. Coupled with an insatiable appetite for winning, it’s no wonder Denver boasts an impressive 9-2 record.

Consider a recent eight-day stretch that highlights his versatility: a season-high 55-point outburst, a staggering 33-point, 15-rebound, 16-assist triple-double, and a 26-point game without a single free-throw attempt. These are not just statistics; they are brushstrokes of a basketball genius at work.

Efficiency Personified: A Statistical Marvel

What truly sets Nikola Jokić apart is his breathtaking efficiency. This season, he’s shooting an astonishing 67% from the field, including an incredible 78% on two-pointers (101-129). He leads the league in both rebounds and assists, all while averaging a triple-double. It’s a statistical profile that defies convention and redefines the limits of big-man play.

“He’s the most efficient basketball player I’ve ever seen… please show me who else is out there that plays like this, at this efficient level offensively.”

— Nuggets coach David Adelman on Nikola Jokić

Adelman’s words resonate deeply. Jokić transforms the amazing into the routine, making complex plays look effortless. His ability to consistently deliver at such a high, efficient level underscores his status as a supreme basketball being.

The MVP Ladder: Who’s Chasing Jokić?

While Nikola Jokić holds the top spot, the 2025-26 MVP race is filled with incredible talent pushing him every step of the way. Here’s a look at some of the other international and domestic stars making their case:

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (No. 2): Consistently stellar, SGA continues to deliver high-level scoring (32.5 PPG) with remarkably low turnovers, often resting in the fourth quarter after dominating the first three. His efficiency and scoring prowess are undeniable.
• Giannis Antetokounmpo (No. 3): A perennial MVP candidate, Giannis remains a wrecking ball, averaging 33.4 points and 11.9 rebounds. His slippage from last week is more a testament to the fierce competition than any dip in his own monumental production.
• Luka Dončić (No. 4): Finally healthy and a fixture in the lineup, Dončić is making his move, posting 34.9 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 8.9 assists. He has an outside chance of averaging a triple-double, especially as he fully integrates with LeBron James’ return.
• Victor Wembanyama (No. 5): After a couple of ‘meh’ performances, Wembanyama responded emphatically, becoming the first player in NBA history with a 35+ point, 10+ rebound, 5+ assist, 5+ block, and 5+ three-pointer stat line. His 7-foot-4 (or 7-foot-5) frame combined with guard skills is truly terrifying.

Other notable contenders include Cade Cunningham, Donovan Mitchell, Tyrese Maxey, Alperen Sengun, and Jalen Brunson, among a host of other international stars who continue to set the tone in the league.

What’s Next for the Serbian Sensation?

Given his three MVPs and relentless output, one might ask a curious, if somewhat silly, question: Is Nikola Jokić on the verge of a breakout season? Typically, this query is reserved for young talents seeking respectability, not for a reigning legend. Yet, with Jokić, the feeling persists that his ceiling might still be higher.

Imagine if the last five seasons were merely an appetizer for what 2025-26 holds. That’s a terrifying thought for the rest of the league and an exhilarating prospect for basketball fans. As the season progresses, one thing is certain: watching Nikola Jokić continue his monumental takeover will be nothing short of pure entertainment.

For more stats and player information, visit Nikola Jokić’s official NBA profile.