The Best Of The Best: Assessing Nikola Jokic Among NBA's Top MVP Runner-Ups

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Post on May 23, 2025

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The Best of the Best: Assessing Nikola Jokic Among NBA's Top MVP Runner-Ups

Nikola Jokic. The name itself evokes images of masterful passing, impossible shots, and a quiet dominance that has redefined the center position. While he’s secured two coveted NBA MVP awards, his near-misses in the race are equally compelling, prompting the question: where does Jokic rank among the league's all-time best MVP runner-ups? This analysis delves into his performances, comparing them to other notable second-place finishers to determine his place in this elite group.

Jokic's Near Misses: A Statistical Deep Dive

Jokic’s consistent excellence makes him a perennial MVP candidate. While his two wins speak volumes, his runner-up finishes deserve closer scrutiny. These weren't mere appearances; they represent seasons of breathtaking statistical prowess and undeniable team impact. Let's examine some key seasons:

• 2020-2021 Season: Though Joel Embiid ultimately won, Jokic's stat line – averaging 26.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 8.3 assists – was nothing short of spectacular. His advanced metrics painted a picture of unparalleled efficiency and court control, showcasing a level of dominance rarely seen. He led the league in Player Efficiency Rating (PER), solidifying his status as a top contender even in defeat.

• 2021-2022 Season: This season saw Jokic win his second consecutive MVP, but his performance in the 2020-2021 season, where he was narrowly edged out, highlights his consistent excellence. He faced stiff competition, showcasing the caliber of players consistently vying for the prestigious award.

Comparing Jokic to Other Notable Runner-Ups

To accurately assess Jokic's position among MVP runner-ups, we need to compare him to historical greats who came incredibly close to winning the award:

• Karl Malone: A dominant power forward, Malone’s consistent excellence earned him two second-place finishes. His scoring prowess and rebounding skills are legendary, but did he possess the all-around impact of a Jokic?

• Shaquille O'Neal: The Diesel's sheer physical dominance often overshadowed his all-around game, but his runner-up finishes highlighted his immense talent and influence. How does his post-play compare to Jokic’s revolutionary style?

• Michael Jordan: While the GOAT is known for his MVP trophies, even he had a runner-up finish. This underscores the intense competition and highlights the prestige of even second place. The comparison to Jokic emphasizes the changing landscape of basketball dominance.

The Argument for Jokic's Supremacy

Jokic's case for being the best MVP runner-up rests on several factors:

• Statistical Dominance: His consistent ability to post triple-doubles while maintaining exceptional efficiency is unprecedented. He’s redefined the possibilities for a center in the modern NBA.
• All-Around Impact: His playmaking abilities elevate his team's offense to new heights. He's not just a scorer; he's a floor general with uncanny court vision and passing skills.
• Era Consideration: The competition Jokic faces is arguably the stiffest in NBA history, making his close calls even more impressive.

Conclusion: A Legacy Forged in Near Misses

While definitively crowning the "best" runner-up is subjective, Nikola Jokic's performances strongly suggest he deserves a top spot in that exclusive club. His statistical dominance, all-around impact, and the sheer level of competition he consistently faces make his near-misses not failures, but testaments to his exceptional skill and enduring legacy in NBA history. His continued performance will solidify his position further, ensuring his place in NBA lore, regardless of whether he adds more MVP trophies to his collection.