Eight years ago today, Jokic made a career-defining move. And now he’s just 50 games away from shattering Russell Westbrook’s mark.

It’s hard to imagine a time when Nikola Jokić wasn’t one of the most dominant forces in the NBA, but exactly eight years ago today, the Serbian center made a decision that would set him on a path to stardom. Today, Jokić is not only a two-time NBA MVP but also a player who’s on the verge of breaking a remarkable record. As of now, Nikola Jokić is just 50 games away from surpassing Russell Westbrook’s mark for the most triple-doubles in NBA history. The journey from that pivotal moment eight years ago to this point has been one of growth, determination, and remarkable performances.

The Moment That Changed Jokić’s Career

Eight years ago, on this very day, Nikola Jokić made a career-defining move. In 2015, the Denver Nuggets selected the relatively unknown 19-year-old from Serbia with the 41st overall pick in the NBA Draft. At the time, Jokić’s selection was met with some skepticism. He wasn’t the most athletic or explosive prospect, and many questioned how his unconventional playing style would translate to the NBA. But in hindsight, the decision to draft Jokić proved to be a masterstroke for the Nuggets organization.

From the moment he set foot on an NBA court, Nikola Jokić began to prove the doubters wrong. His basketball IQ, court vision, and unique ability to play the game from the center position with the skills of a point guard quickly set him apart. Over the years, Jokić has grown from a promising young player into one of the most unstoppable forces in the league, revolutionizing the way the center position is viewed.

Jokić’s Rise to NBA Dominance

Jokić’s path to greatness was not without challenges, but his ascent to the top of the NBA was both swift and deserved. His career took off in the 2018-19 season when he won the NBA MVP award, marking the beginning of his dominance in the league. That season, Jokić averaged 20.1 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game, becoming the first center since Wilt Chamberlain to lead his team in all three categories. His ability to make plays as a big man was something the NBA had never seen before, and it earned him the MVP honor.

Since that MVP season, Jokić has only continued to get better, solidifying his place among the NBA’s elite. His unique skill set, which includes exceptional passing, vision, and the ability to score from almost anywhere on the floor, has redefined the expectations for the center position in modern basketball.

The Road to Russell Westbrook’s Triple-Double Record

Now, as of the 2023-24 season, Nikola Jokić is closing in on a historic milestone: breaking the triple-double record set by Russell Westbrook. Westbrook, a former MVP himself, set the bar with 182 career triple-doubles, a feat that many believed would stand for a long time. But Jokić, with his remarkable court vision and all-around skills, is now within striking distance of surpassing that mark.

As of today, Jokić has recorded 132 career triples, and he’s averaging a triple-double this season. His ability to contribute in every facet of the game—scoring, rebounding, and distributing—has made him the most likely player to break Westbrook’s record. The fact that Jokić plays the center position, a position traditionally not known for accumulating triples, only adds to the significance of his achievement.

What Makes Jokić So Special?

Jokić’s ability to dominate in the triple-double category is a testament to his versatility and basketball IQ. Unlike most centers, Jokić doesn’t rely solely on physicality to impact the game. Instead, his intelligence and understanding of the game allow him to affect every part of the court. Whether it’s a pinpoint pass to an open shooter, grabbing a clutch rebound, or scoring in the post, Jokić can do it all.

Another factor that makes Jokić such a special player is his unselfishness. While many players focus on scoring or looking for their own opportunities, Jokić is always looking for ways to elevate his teammates. His playmaking ability is unmatched for a big man, and he consistently finds teammates in positions to succeed. This selflessness is key to his ability to accumulate triple-doubles, as he’s often more concerned with the team’s success than his own individual statistics.

Breaking Westbrook’s Record: The Significance

The significance of Jokić breaking Westbrook’s triple-double record cannot be overstated. Russell Westbrook’s achievement was groundbreaking, and for Jokić to surpass him would be a monumental accomplishment. It would also solidify Jokić’s place in the conversation about the greatest players of all time.

Surpassing Russell Westbrook’s triple-double mark is not just about the numbers; it’s about redefining the role of the center in today’s NBA. Jokić’s ability to perform at such a high level and break records traditionally held by point guards is a testament to the evolution of the game. His achievement would mark a shift in how the center position is viewed, as players like Jokić are proving that big men can be just as impactful as anyone else on the court.

What’s Next for Jokić?

With 50 games left to break Westbrook’s record, the question is not if Jokić will do it, but when. Given his current pace and consistency, it seems inevitable that he will surpass Westbrook within the next season. Once that milestone is achieved, it’s anyone’s guess how much further Jokić can push the record. With his prime years still ahead of him, Jokić could continue to accumulate triple-doubles for years to come.

As the NBA continues to evolve, Nikola Jokić’s journey from a relatively unknown prospect to one of the most dominant players in league history will serve as an inspiration to future generations of basketball players. He is a living testament to the fact that with hard work, intelligence, and a love for the game, anything is possible.

Conclusion

Eight years ago, Nikola Jokić made a career-defining move, and today, he’s on the verge of breaking one of the most prestigious records in NBA history. With only 50 games remaining to surpass Russell Westbrook’s triple-double mark, Jokić’s path to greatness is clearer than ever. His journey from an overlooked draft pick to a two-time MVP and future record-holder is a story of resilience, dedication, and basketball brilliance. As he continues to rewrite the record books, Jokić is solidifying his place as one of the greatest players the NBA has ever seen.