Nikola Jokic, the star player of the Denver Nuggets, has been a dominant force behind the team’s success in recent years. The Serbian basketball player’s remarkable contributions played a significant role in leading his team to win the title in the 2022-23 NBA season.
Jokic, who was recently spotted shirtless during Team Serbia’s Olympic bronze medal celebration, is often praised for his stellar skills and achievements. Former NBA player Kendrick Perkins, when asked about his top 5 greatest international players of all time in the NBA, named Jokic in the first position.
On Thursday’s episode of ESPN’s “NBA Today” show, Perkins ranked Hakeem Olajuwon in the second position, Giannis Antetokounmpo in the third, Dirk Nowitzki in the fourth, and Manu Ginobili in the fifth position on his list. However, NBA fans were unsatisfied with Perkins’ selection, as he placed Jokic above Olajuwon.
Several NBA fans started criticizing Perkins because they believed Jokic should not be placed above the legendary player Olajuwon. Many fans reacted in the comment section of the NBA Central post on X.
One fan commented, “Hakeem is one of the best two ways of all time Jokic is a beast but he’s behind him.”
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Meanwhile, another fan wrote, “Jokic is great. But maybe wait a few years to see how he really comps with Dream.”
Another fan criticized Perkins and commented, “Perkins when it comes to bad Takes.”
Another fan explained, “Hakeem is better defensively and defense is really important if you’re a big. So it’s Hakeem > Joker (for now).”
Another fan mentioned, “Hakeem is easily 1. Nash should probably be here.”
Nikola Jokic vs. Hakeem Olajuwon: A Closer Look
After being selected by the Nuggets in the second round of the 2014 NBA draft, Jokic has become a crucial player for the team. The 29-year-old played several dominating seasons with the Nuggets, but his best stats came in the 2021-22 season, where he averaged 27.1 points, 7.9 assists, and 13.8 rebounds per game.
Jokic has achieved several milestones in his career, including an NBA championship in 2023, NBA MVP honors three times, an NBA Finals MVP award in 2023, and a 6-time NBA All-Star.
On the other hand, Olajuwon, who is widely considered to be one of the greatest centers and basketball players of all time, played 18 seasons in his NBA professional career. The former NBA player is a two-time NBA champion, 1994 NBA MVP, two-time NBA Finals MVP, and a 12-time NBA All-Star.
According to StatMuse, Jokic averaged 26.4 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 9.0 assists in 79 games during the 2023-24 season. He was chosen to participate in his sixth All-Star Game. The upcoming NBA season is approaching, and it will be intriguing to see the Serbian basketball player’s performance.
Also Read: VIDEO: NBA Insider Sets The Record Straight On Speculation Of A Potential Team-Up Between Nikola Jokic And Luka Doncic
