In an electrifying display of skill and dominance, Nikola Jokic, the Denver Nuggets’ cornerstone, has officially dethroned LeBron James in the all-time triple-double rankings, a feat that has the basketball world buzzing. This monumental achievement not only underscores Jokic’s burgeoning legacy but also marks a seismic shift in the NBA’s landscape.
The Serbian has 123 regular season and 16 postseason triple-doubles. James, meanwhile, has compiled 110 and 28 in his career. Russell Westbrook holds the regular season record with 198 while Magic Johnson owns the postseason with 30. Combined, Westbrook is still on top with 210, followed by Oscar Robertson with 189 and then Johnson with 168.
Nikola Jokic has led the NBA in triple-doubles over the last three seasons. He is on track to make it four straight but Domantas Sabonis is giving him a tough fight. With the way Jokic has been playing and compiling the said statistics, he could surpass Johnson as early as next season.
LeBron James could still add to his tally before this season is over. He already has three and might have more if the LA Lakers get into the postseason. Still, it wouldn’t be long before Jokic will leave him behind considering how the Denver Nuggets utilize the superstar big man on offense.
The Triumph Over Golden State Warriors
The Serbian sensation led the Nuggets to a commanding 119-103 victory against the Golden State Warriors, showcasing an awe-inspiring performance that included 32 points, 16 rebounds, 16 assists, four steals, and one block. This remarkable triple-double, Jokic’s third consecutive and 18th for the season, places him just behind Domantas Sabonis for the season’s lead.
The reigning NBA Finals MVP also moved past LeBron James for triple-doubles in the regular season and playoffs combined. Jokic now has 139 compared to James’ 138. “King James” played 1,754 games to reach his tally while Jokic broke it in 720.
Nikola Jokic Surpasses “King James”
Jokic’s latest feat has propelled him past LeBron James for the most career triple-doubles, combining regular season and playoff performances. With 139 triple-doubles to his name, compared to James’ 138, Jokic has shattered records in a mere 720 games, a stark contrast to James’ 1,754. This achievement has sparked a frenzy among NBA enthusiasts, with many proclaiming Jokic as “better than LeBum,” highlighting the shift in perception towards the Serbian’s dominance in the league.
The Statistical Showdown
Delving deeper into the numbers, Jokic boasts 123 regular season and 16 postseason triple-doubles, outpacing James, who has 110 and 28, respectively. While Russell Westbrook and Magic Johnson still lead in their respective categories, Jokic’s trajectory suggests he could soon surpass these legends, having led the NBA in triple-doubles for the last three seasons.
The Playoff Implications
As the NBA season progresses, the potential for a playoff showdown between Jokic’s Nuggets and James’ Lakers looms large. Despite the Lakers’ current struggle to secure a playoff berth, the prospect of a first-round matchup against the Nuggets offers a tantalizing narrative, especially with Jokic and James at the forefront of this rivalry.
Great defensive game from Nikola Jokic tonight vs. Golden State.
When he plays with playoff-level effort, like he did tonight, he's an elite defender. pic.twitter.com/3t4vZFmtT2
— Harrison Wind (@HarrisonWind) February 26, 2024
A New Chapter in NBA History
Nikola Jokic’s ascendancy in the NBA’s record books is not merely a testament to his skill but also signals a shift in the game’s dynamics. As fans and pundits alike marvel at his accomplishments, the debate over the league’s top player takes on new dimensions. With Jokic’s blend of versatility, intelligence, and sheer dominance, the NBA is witnessing the rise of a new king.
In conclusion, Nikola Jokic’s surpassing of LeBron James in career triple-doubles is a milestone that transcends statistics, symbolizing the dawn of a new era in the NBA. As the playoffs approach, the basketball world waits with bated breath for what promises to be an epic showdown between two of the game’s greatest.
