LeBron James praises Nikola Jokic: “One of the greatest ever”
Just a few words from LeBron are enough to define Jokic’s status: not just an MVP, but a name that already belongs to the history of the game
Even while injured, Nikola Jokic continues to dominate NBA conversations. On Tuesday night, as the Denver Nuggets fell at home to the Los Angeles Lakers (115-107), the Serbian center was forced to watch from the bench, missing his 12th consecutive game.
Denver had closed the first half in the lead, only to be overtaken by the Lakers after the break. The overall record remains strong (29-15, 12-8 at Ball Arena), but Jokić’s absence is still felt – especially in moments when the game demands control, reads, and composure.
Not by chance, during a timeout LeBron James approached the Nuggets’ big man to exchange a few words. And in the postgame, the four-time NBA champion didn’t mince words when describing Jokić’s impact:
It’s all about respect. For the greats of the past, the present, and those who are going to come. Jokić is one of the greatest players that has ever played this game. To see him and show him my respect is the easiest thing in the world.
LeBron James, via DNVR Nuggets
Words that carry weight – especially considering who is saying them.
LeBron James is no stranger to expressing admiration for other stars around the league, but the tone used for Jokić goes beyond a simple compliment. It’s the acknowledgment of an equal, of a player who has already left a deep mark on NBA history.
From 41st pick to NBA legend
Nikola Jokic’s trajectory is now one of the most incredible in league history. From the 41st overall pick in the Draft to a three-time MVP, his journey has become a case study – not just for individual accolades, but for how he has redefined the modern center position.
Offensively, finding a true weakness in his game is difficult. Vision, elite passing, the ability to score in every possible way: Denver has become a high-efficiency machine precisely because of his talent, capable of elevating everyone around him.
Nuggets holding steady, awaiting Jokic
That said, the Nuggets aren’t collapsing without their leader. A 7-5 record in Jokic’s absence shows a solid, well-coached structure. But the final leap – the one that separates a good team from a true contender – inevitably runs through number 15.
According to Shams Charania of ESPN, Jokić has resumed on-court workouts, staying on schedule with the projected four-week recovery timeline. His last game dates back to December 29, and his return now appears to be getting closer.