Shaq, the NBA legend whose personality is as large as his stature, isn’t afraid to ruffle feathers. His latest target? Back-to-back MVP Nikola Jokic.
In a video posted by NBA Central [TheDunkCentral tweet], Shaquille throws a verbal fast break at Jokic, suggesting Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) was the rightful heir to the MVP throne. Shaquille congratulates Jokic but adds, “But I want you to hear from me first. I thought SGA should have been the MVP. No disrespect to you,”
Shaq tells Nikola Jokic straight up that he thinks SGA deserved MVP over him 😯 pic.twitter.com/BsSbkQVspm
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) May 8, 2024
This unexpected critique has ignited a firestorm in the basketball world.
Shaq’s MVP Manifesto: Does SGA Have a Case?
Shaquille O’Neal, renowned for his unstoppable interior dominance during his playing days, often champions a more traditional style of play. While Jokic, the “Joker,” is an undeniable force, his unorthodox approach might not resonate with Shaquille’s vision of an MVP.
Enter SGA, a young guard averaging over 28 points per game and leading a surprising Oklahoma City Thunder team to the playoffs. His scoring prowess and athleticism embody the “dominant” qualities Shaquille often associates with MVPs. However, a deeper look reveals a more nuanced picture.
Beyond the Bucket: Why Jokic Reigns Supreme
Jokic’s impact on the Denver Nuggets extends far beyond scoring. He’s a floor general, orchestrating the offense and elevating his teammates. His ability to control the game with his passing and court vision is unmatched, leading the league in assists for a center for two consecutive seasons.
While Shaquille O’Neal’s opinion carries weight, the MVP award is ultimately decided by media votes. Looking at the numbers, Jokic presents a compelling case. He averaged a historic triple-double (27.1 points, 13.8 rebounds, and 7.9 assists) throughout the season, a feat reserved for an elite few.
SGA, despite his impressive scoring, doesn’t quite match Jokic’s all-around dominance. His scoring average is undeniable, but his assist numbers and overall influence on the game fall short compared to Jokic. Additionally, the Thunder’s lower playoff seeding compared to the Nuggets strengthens Jokic’s case.
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