What NBA Stars Really Think About Nikola Jokic: The Joker’s Unique Legacy

Nikola Jokic is no ordinary basketball player.

At 7 feet tall and hailing from Serbia, his style of play defies typical NBA norms.

Quiet but deadly, Jokic has earned widespread respect and admiration from some of the greatest players in the league’s history.

But what do his peers really think about the man known as “The Joker”?

This article explores candid insights from NBA legends and current stars who have witnessed Jokic’s unique brilliance firsthand.

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LeBron James, one of the greatest players of all time, has openly praised Jokic’s team-first mentality.

After facing Jokic in the 2020 Western Conference Finals, LeBron acknowledged Jokic’s exceptional playmaking, even while identifying his relative lack of speed and defensive agility as potential weaknesses.

LeBron’s respect for Jokic is clear—he sees him as a rising superstar who may soon carry the torch as LeBron’s own era winds down.

Kevin Durant, a perennial MVP candidate, was quick to notice Jokic’s extraordinary feel for the game early in Jokic’s career.

Durant has repeatedly lauded Jokic’s vision and ability to dominate in multiple facets, emphasizing that Jokic’s unique skill set makes him a force to be reckoned with for years to come.

Despite now playing in different conferences, Durant and Jokic’s rivalry remains a highlight of the NBA landscape.

Dirk Nowitzki, a trailblazer for international players, is both an idol and a comparison point for Jokic.

While Dirk revolutionized the game with his shooting, Jokic has taken it further with his passing ability.

Averaging over seven assists per game in recent seasons, Jokic’s playmaking is unprecedented for a big man of his size.

Dirk admires Jokic’s unselfish approach and has even joked that Jokic’s passing is so good, “it’s a joke.”

Chauncey Billups, the 2004 Finals MVP, compares Jokic to Arvydas Sabonis, one of the best passing big men ever.

Billups highlights how Jokic’s assist numbers dwarf those of Sabonis, underscoring how Jokic is redefining what it means to be a center in the modern NBA.

Jokic’s highlight-reel passes have become a nightly spectacle that fans and players alike eagerly anticipate.

Doc Rivers, with nearly 35 years of NBA experience as a player and coach, calls Jokic the best passing big man he has ever seen.

Rivers also draws parallels between Jokic’s footwork and the legendary Hakeem Olajuwon, noting Jokic’s graceful, almost balletic movements in the post.

Such comparisons place Jokic in elite company and hint at a Hall of Fame future.

Paul Millsap, Jokic’s longtime teammate and mentor, likens Jokic to a quarterback on the basketball court—a master of orchestrating plays and directing his team.

Millsap’s colorful analogy about Jokic “throwing free cheeseburgers” on the court captures the effortless way Jokic sets up his teammates for easy baskets.

Their close relationship has been vital for Jokic’s growth into the leader of the Denver Nuggets.

Deandre Ayton, a fellow young center and competitor, admires Jokic’s work ethic and greatness.

Despite their differing paths to the NBA, Ayton respects Jokic’s game and uses it as motivation to improve.

Their friendly rivalry exemplifies how Jokic has become a benchmark for excellence among the league’s rising big men.

Mike Miller, who gave Jokic his nickname “The Joker,” praises his impact beyond scoring.

Miller highlights Jokic’s ability to dominate games with a balanced stat line—points, rebounds, and assists—rather than relying solely on scoring.

Miller’s mentorship during Jokic’s early years helped shape the Serbian star’s leadership qualities and understanding of the game.

Richard Jefferson, now an analyst, considers Jokic the best big man in the league and one of the top five passers regardless of position.

Jefferson credits Jokic’s leadership for the Nuggets’ recent success and marvels at his ability to command the floor and make teammates better.

Though he has occasionally criticized Jokic’s passive style, Jefferson acknowledges his clutch performances and growing confidence.

Michael Porter Jr., Jokic’s teammate, emphasizes Jokic’s durability and consistency—traits often overlooked but crucial in a grueling NBA season.

Porter praises Jokic’s ability to show up night after night, providing a reliable presence that the Nuggets can count on.

This reliability, combined with Jokic’s versatility, makes him one of the most valuable players in the league.

Across the board, NBA players and legends agree on one thing: Nikola Jokic is a transformative figure in basketball.

His combination of size, skill, vision, and unselfishness challenges traditional roles and redefines what a center can be.

From LeBron James to Dirk Nowitzki, the consensus is clear—Jokic is not only a superstar today but also a future Hall of Famer who will leave an indelible mark on the game.

Nikola Jokic’s rise from a relatively unknown second-round pick to one of the NBA’s brightest stars has captivated players and fans alike.

Praised by legends and peers for his unique style, exceptional passing, and leadership, Jokic embodies a new era of basketball brilliance.

But what is it about “The Joker” that earns such universal respect?

This article reveals the candid thoughts of NBA greats who have seen Jokic’s impact up close—and why they believe he’s a once-in-a-generation talent destined for greatness.