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Ranking the 75 best players in NBA history for 75th anniversary

By Josh Cornelissen

Kobe Bryant (Photo credit should read Vince Bucci/AFP via Getty Images)
Kobe Bryant (Photo credit should read Vince Bucci/AFP via Getty Images) /
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Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets. Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images /

Ranking the 75 best players in NBA history: No. 73 – Nikola Jokic

Career: 2015 – 2021

Achievements: 2021 MVP; All-NBA (3x); All-Star (3x)

On the NBA’s 50 at 50 list, they included a young center named Shaquille O’Neal. He had finished second in MVP voting in 1994-95, He was top-3 in scoring three different times in his first three seasons. The league wanted to honor an up-and-comer, and O’Neal validated their faith in him.

I think the NBA does the same again, and if they do (as I am choosing to do) they should pick Nikola Jokic. The reigning MVP has been incredible to start his career, already the greatest passing big man in NBA history and one of the most talented scorers. He can score efficiently from anywhere on the court, with post-moves, the league’s best floater and a variety of push-shots, bankers and even a strong 3-point stroke that especially comes alive in the playoffs.

Jokic has made the playoffs three times and won at least a series in each of them. He raises the offensive floor and ceiling of his team and is one of the most scalable offensive centers in league history. His per-minute and advanced numbers are off the charts. He is going to get better, he will continue to be among the league’s elite, and he is a worthy candidate for the last couple of spots on this list.