Nikola Jokic

Nikola Jokic is the most skilled passing big man in NBA history and the most improbable three-time MVP the league has ever produced. Drafted 41st overall in 2014 — the lowest draft position for any MVP in history — Jokic has systematically dismantled every assumption about what a dominant basketball player looks like. He doesn't jump. He doesn't run fast. He looks like he'd rather be racing horses in Serbia. And he is the most devastating offensive weapon in the modern NBA.

Jokic's passing from the center position is unlike anything basketball has ever seen. He averages over 9 assists per game while playing center — a number that would be elite for a point guard. His ability to read defenses, throw no-look passes from the post, and orchestrate a five-man offense from the elbow has made Denver's system entirely dependent on his genius. The Nuggets' 2023 championship run saw Jokic post one of the greatest playoff performances in history, averaging 30.0 points, 13.5 rebounds, and 9.5 assists.

Three MVPs place Jokic in exclusive company — only Russell, Chamberlain, Bird, Jordan, LeBron, and Kareem have won three or more. His advanced metrics are historically unprecedented, and his ability to impact winning without elite athleticism makes him one of the most unique players the sport has ever produced.