Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic won his third MVP award in four seasons, but not everyone was pleased with the results. Former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal expressed his opinion during an interview with Jokic on “NBA on TNT,” stating that he believed Oklahoma City Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander should have won the award. Jokic, however, graciously accepted the award and acknowledged that there were many players who deserved recognition for their performances during the season.
O’Neal’s support for Gilgeous-Alexander was based on his exceptional performance throughout the season, leading Oklahoma City to the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference. Gilgeous-Alexander averaged 30.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game, showcasing his all-around skills on the court. Despite O’Neal’s opinion, Jokic’s impressive stats of 26.4 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game set him apart as the only player to rank in the NBA’s top 10 in all three categories, leading to his MVP victory with 79 of 99 first-place votes.
Jokic’s win marked his third MVP award in four seasons, making him the seventh player in NBA history to achieve such a feat. His consistent performance on the court and ability to excel in multiple facets of the game have solidified his status as one of the league’s top players. Despite O’Neal’s belief that Gilgeous-Alexander deserved the award, Jokic’s dominance and impact on the Denver Nuggets’ success were undeniable, leading to his well-deserved recognition as the league’s MVP.
The banter between O’Neal and Jokic during the interview added a light-hearted tone to the discussion, with O’Neal playfully expressing his opinion on the MVP voting results. Jokic’s response showcased his humility and respect for other players in the league, acknowledging that there were many deserving candidates for the award. His ability to stay grounded and focus on the team’s success rather than individual accolades has endeared him to fans and fellow players alike.
Jokic’s MVP win highlighted his remarkable contributions to the Denver Nuggets’ success throughout the season, solidifying his place among the NBA’s elite players. His unique skill set as a big man with exceptional passing and scoring abilities has revolutionized the center position in the league. With three MVP awards to his name, Jokic’s impact on the game and his stellar performance on the court continue to garner praise and admiration from fans, analysts, and fellow players.
Overall, Jokic’s third MVP win cements his place in NBA history as one of the league’s most dominant and versatile players. While O’Neal and others may have differing opinions on who should have won the award, Jokic’s consistent excellence and impact on the game speak for themselves. His ability to excel in multiple statistical categories and lead his team to success make him a deserving recipient of the MVP award, showcasing his dedication and talent as a top-tier player in the NBA.
