Nikola Jokic has spent the past few seasons redefining what an NBA center can be, blending old-school post dominance with the kind of passing wizardry that makes you do a double-take. His court vision, efficiency, and ability to elevate teammates have sparked admiration from legends of the game. One former NBA star recently delivered a bold take on Jokic’s play style, drawing parallels to a legend.

What makes Nikola Jokic’s brilliance even more remarkable is how he continues to dominate despite dealing with nagging injuries. While some superstars rely on explosiveness, the Joker’s game is rooted in finesse, footwork, and IQ, allowing him to remain highly effective even when not at full strength. Which he demonstrated when he came back against the Milwaukee Bucks.

While discussing the game between the Denver Nuggets and Milwaukee Bucks on Run It Back, shared on X, Chandler Parsons shared a take on the Nuggets center, in awe. He said, “It’s crazy, the dude doesn’t even miss a bead. He somehow stays in shape when he  doesn’t even necessarily look like he’s in great shape; it’s unbelievable.” Then elaborating on the recent game, in which Jokic came back from injury, Parsons commented, “The vision which he has and the versatility which he plays with is rarely…. It’s a seven-footer doing this off the dribble, spin move, no look over the shoulder Magic Johnson-esque thing. It’s a joke.” Acknowledging the freakish athleticism and basketball IQ the Joker possesses and subtly giving him a nod to one of the all-time greats in Magic Johnson.

Then Parsons went on to talk about the season Jokic has had. Saying,” It’s nuts to look back and see his stats that he is not gonna win MVP, and again credit to SGA not to knock him, he deserves it, he’s on the best team, he’s had an unbelievable year. It’s crazy, this is the best season ever not to win an MVP.” Speaking of the insane season Jokic had this year, where it looked like he was about to clinch his fourth MVP Award in five years, but only to be dethroned by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and an injury which sidelined him for five games. Let dive into what exactly happened.

The injury that potentially derailed Jokic’s MVP claim and a dream comeback

What can we say about Nikola Jokic’s season? It has been a rollercoaster ride. From dominating the league one night to being sidelined with injuries the next. But the biggest scare? A left ankle injury which forced him to miss five games, leaving Jokic and the Nuggets fans holding their breath. Without their superstar player, the Nuggets had to hold down the fort. But everyone knew the real question wasn’t whether they could survive; it was how Jokic would look when he came back.

And when he did? Man, he impressed! In his first game back against the Milwaukee Bucks, Nikola Jokic dropped a 39-point triple-double. Leading the Nuggets to a 127-117 win. Oh, and he threw in one of those insane over-the-shoulder dimes to Aaron Gordon. Just to remind everyone that even on a sore ankle, he’s still the best passing big man in history. Talk about making a statement! Of course, the injury isn’t fully behind him. Jokic admitted he still “feels it a little.” The Nuggets have been smart about managing his minutes. Making sure he’s fresh for the playoffs. And honestly, even at less than 100%, the Joker is still outplaying just about everyone in the league.

At this point, the MVP conversation isn’t just about stats, it’s about impact. If Jokic can carry the Nuggets through these rough patches and still put up ridiculous numbers. What more is there to prove? Injuries or not, the big man is still very much in the driver’s seat for that fourth MVP trophy, hopefully. But SGA is not relenting anytime soon! What are your thoughts on the MVP title?