Jokic will dethrone Jordan, as he is on track for the best statistical season in modern history. Who is the NBA’s genuine dominant center

The NBA has seen countless legends grace its courts, from Michael Jordan to Shaquille O’Neal. However, the conversation about the NBA’s genuine dominant center is taking a dramatic turn as Nikola Jokic appears to be rewriting history. The Serbian sensation is not only redefining what it means to be a center but is also on track for what could be the best statistical season in modern history. Could Jokic really dethrone Jordan as the ultimate basketball icon?
Jokic’s Historic Numbers: The Making of a New Basketball Legend
Statistical dominance is the language of basketball greatness, and Nikola Jokic is speaking it fluently. This season, the two-time MVP is averaging an astounding triple-double, combining efficiency, versatility, and sheer dominance. With averages exceeding 25 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists per game, Jokic is doing what no center in NBA history has consistently achieved.
These numbers are not just gaudy—they’re groundbreaking. His efficiency rating, field goal percentage, and advanced metrics like PER (Player Efficiency Rating) place him in the same conversation as Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. But unlike these legends, Jokic is doing it from the center position, traditionally not associated with playmaking and versatility.
Dethroning Michael Jordan: A realistic possibility?
Comparisons to Michael Jordan, the universally accepted GOAT (Greatest of All Time), are always contentious. Jordan’s career was defined by his six championships, five MVP awards, and countless iconic moments. However, Jokic’s impact on the game goes beyond stats and titles—it’s about transforming the very role of a center.
While Jordan dominated through sheer athleticism and scoring ability, Jokic is the definition of a basketball maestro. His court vision, IQ, and ability to involve teammates elevate the Denver Nuggets to a championship-contending level year after year. If Jokic continues his current pace and adds more championships to his resume, the debate over his place in basketball history will grow louder.
Who is the NBA’s Genuine Dominant Center? Jokic vs. Historical Greats
In the pantheon of dominant centers, Jokic finds himself in elite company. Names like Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russell, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar define the standard for greatness in the paint.
Wilt Chamberlain: Known for his jaw-dropping stats, Wilt once averaged 50 points per game in a season. However, critics argue that his era lacked the competitive parity of today’s NBA.
Shaquille O’Neal: dominant with sheer physicality but lacked Jokic’s finesse and versatility.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: The all-time leading scorer until LeBron James surpassed him, Kareem combined scoring with defense.
Nikola Jokic: Jokic offers a new dimension. His combination of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking makes him arguably the most versatile center in NBA history.
Jokic’s ability to dictate the game’s tempo and control every facet of the offense sets him apart from his predecessors.
The Road Ahead: Can Jokic Cement His Legacy?
For Jokic to dethrone Jordan and secure his spot as the greatest, championships will be crucial. While his stats are undeniable, the basketball world often measures greatness by rings. With a strong supporting cast and Denver’s championship window wide open, the stage is set for Jokic to achieve even greater heights.
The real challenge lies in maintaining his incredible level of play while adding accolades to his resume. MVP awards, Finals appearances, and championships are the building blocks of an unassailable legacy.
Conclusion: Jokic’s Journey to Basketball Immortality
Nikola Jokic is on the brink of something extraordinary. If he continues on his current trajectory, he won’t just dethrone Jordan in statistical discussions—he could redefine the criteria for basketball greatness.
The question of who is the NBA’s genuine dominant center might no longer be about comparisons to Shaq or Wilt. Instead, it will focus on whether Jokic has transcended the position altogether to become one of the greatest players in history.
For now, the basketball world watches as Jokic crafts his masterpiece—one assist, one rebound, and one triple-double at a time.