Nikola Jokić’s dominance in the NBA over recent seasons has reached such a level that his remarkable performances almost risk becoming
routine to fans. Yet, the profound historical significance of his 2024-25 campaign deserves closer attention and recognition.
Despite the Denver Nuggets’ relatively slow start to the season, with a 12-10 record, it would be unfair to place the blame for their struggles solely on Jokić. In terms of individual value, there
is arguably no player in the league more indispensable to their team’s success than the Serbian center.
A closer look at Jokić’s performance this season reveals a number of impressive statistics, but one in particular stands out above the rest. Jokić is currently on track to break an NBA record for
box plus/minus, a statistical measure of a player’s overall impact on the game. As of this writing, the three-time MVP boasts a remarkable
13.79 box plus/minus, a figure that, if sustained, would set a new all-time benchmark in the category.
The most notable aspect of this achievement is that the record Jokić is on pace to break is his own. His 2021-22 season previously held the
highest box plus/minus mark in NBA history at 13.72, a performance that helped him win his second MVP award. Should Jokić surpass this
number, it would solidify his standing as one of the most dominant players in the league’s history.
In addition to his record-setting statistical pace, Jokić continues to dominate the MVP race in 2024-25. He currently holds the top spot on the
NBA.com Kia MVP Ladder, further solidifying his status as the league’s premier player. His performance this season has been nothing short of extraordinary, with averages of 32.3 points,
13.6 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game. Notably, he is also shooting a career-high 50.0 percent from three-point range, expanding his offensive repertoire and further enhancing his value.
Despite Jokić’s remarkable consistency and dominance, there is always the potential for voter fatigue to impact how his achievements
are perceived. Both LeBron James and Michael Jordan, two of the game’s greatest players, faced similar challenges during their careers.
Voter fatigue can often cloud the recognition of sustained excellence, but Jokić’s unprecedented achievements in the 2024-25 season should make him immune to such pitfalls.
Jokić’s ability to maintain an elite level of performance year after year, coupled with his historic statistical achievements, should ensure that his place in the MVP conversation remains
unchallenged. His value to the Nuggets is immeasurable, and as his record-breaking season continues, he remains a legitimate contender for his fourth MVP award.
As the season progresses, it’s essential for basketball fans and analysts to recognize the lasting impact of Jokić’s play and the historical
nature of his accomplishments. The 2024-25 campaign is shaping up to be another chapter in what could be one of the most decorated careers in NBA history.