The Joker Turns 30
Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokić celebrated his 30th birthday on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious NBA career. Known affectionately as "The Joker," Jokić has been a phenomenon in the league, captivating fans and analysts alike with his unique blend of skills. His ability to facilitate plays, score from improbable angles, and dominate the post is a testament to his versatility and talent. Over his 10-year career, Jokić has not only rewritten the Nuggets’ record books but has also etched his name in NBA history, achieving a rare combination of accolades and statistical greatness.
A Triple-Double Master
Jokić stands head and shoulders above his peers in the realm of triple-doubles. With 155 career triple-doubles, he is far and away the leader in Nuggets history, and his tally ranks third in NBA history. This achievement puts him in elite company, far surpassing the 43 triple-doubles of Fat Lever and the eight of Dikembe Mutombo. Jokić’s prowess extends beyond just his triple-doubles; he also leads the franchise in total rebounds (7,866) and assists (5,169). His impact on the game is multifaceted, making him one of the most valuable players in the league.
MVP Three-Peat
Nikola Jokić has clinched the NBA MVP award three times over the past four full seasons, a remarkable feat that highlights his consistent excellence. He is third in Nuggets history with 15,597 career points and third among NBA big men with 5,169 career assists, trailing only all-time legends Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Karl Malone. Jokić’s ability to perform at such a high level season after season is a testament to his work ethic and dedication. His MVP titles are a clear indication of his status as one of the best players in the world.
A Season of Triple-Doubles
This season, Jokić has been on a tear, averaging a triple-double across 49 games with 29.8 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game. If these statistics hold, he will join an exclusive club of just two other players in NBA history—Russell Westbrook and Oscar Robertson—who have averaged a triple-double in a single season. Jokić’s consistency and all-around game have been on full display, making him a central figure in the Nuggets’ success and a perennial threat to any opposing team.
All-Star and All-NBA Regular
Jokić’s 2025 NBA All-Star selection marked his seventh consecutive appearance, a testament to his enduring dominance. He is likely to receive his seventh consecutive All-NBA recognition at the end of the season, further solidifying his legacy. Additionally, this season marks the seventh time he has averaged double-digit rebounds per game, a remarkable achievement that underscores his presence on the boards. Jokić’s ability to consistently make an impact in multiple facets of the game is a rarity in the modern NBA.
Playoff Powerhouse
While Jokić’s regular-season numbers are impressive, his postseason performances are even more awe-inspiring. He is averaging 27.7 points per game in the playoffs, a significant improvement from his regular-season career mark of 21.5 points per game. This ranks him 10th in NBA history, a testament to his ability to elevate his game when the stakes are highest. During the Nuggets’ 2022-23 NBA Finals run, Jokić put up an astonishing 30.0 points per game. His 53-point performance in Game 4 of the 2023 quarterfinals against the Phoenix Suns, despite a tough loss, is a testament to his scoring prowess and resilience. His impact on the court is undeniable, and his career is a story of continuous growth and achievement.
