Nikola Jokic Surpasses Oscar Robertson for Second All-Time in Regular-Season Triple-Doubles

United States - Ekhbary News Agency

Nikola Jokic Surpasses Oscar Robertson for Second All-Time in Regular-Season Triple-Doubles

Nikola Jokic has once again etched his name further into the NBA record books, achieving a significant personal milestone during the Denver Nuggets' commanding 136-120 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Saturday night. The Serbian superstar recorded his 182nd career regular-season triple-double, a remarkable performance that places him solely in second place on the league's all-time list, surpassing the legendary Oscar Robertson.

The reigning NBA MVP delivered a masterful all-around performance against the Bulls, tallying 22 points, a season-high 17 assists, and 14 rebounds. This statistical accumulation not only secured the win for the Nuggets but also marked a pivotal moment in Jokic's illustrious career. The game ball, a customary token of appreciation from his teammates for exceptional performances, held particular significance on this occasion.

Reflecting on the achievement, Jokic expressed profound respect for the player he surpassed. "He is a legendary player," Jokic stated about Robertson, a pioneer who was the first in NBA history to average a triple-double for an entire season back in 1961-62. "Any player who steps into this league knows he's a global legend." Robertson's groundbreaking statistical achievements laid the foundation for the triple-double to be recognized as a measure of comprehensive impact on the game.

Jokic, a three-time NBA MVP and an eight-time All-Star, is forging his own unique legacy in the sport. This latest triple-double was his 19th of the current season, marking the second consecutive game in which he has achieved this feat. He continues to chase Russell Westbrook, who holds the all-time record with 207 regular-season triple-doubles. The elite company Jokic keeps is underscored by the fact that Westbrook (achieving this over four seasons), Jokic (in two seasons), and Robertson (in one season) are the only players in NBA history to have averaged a triple-double over the course of a full season.

The impact of Jokic's unique skillset was not lost on his coach, Michael Malone, who has been with the Nuggets organization since Jokic's third season in 2017. Malone frequently finds himself in awe of the 6-foot-11 center's extraordinary abilities, particularly his playmaking prowess. "When your center gets 17 assists in a game -- that just doesn't happen," Malone commented. "Unless it's him." This highlights Jokic's extraordinary vision and passing ability, which often functions at the level of a primary ball-handler, despite his position.

Teammate Jamal Murray echoed the sentiment of sustained excellence, anticipating even greater achievements from Jokic, who is set to turn 31 on February 19th. "He's got a lot of that left," Murray said, projecting confidence in Jokic's longevity and continued dominance. "It's going to be a Usain Bolt record when he sets it. He's going to have that for a long time." This comparison to the world's fastest man suggests an expectation of unparalleled and enduring success.

The nature of Jokic's triple-doubles often defies conventional basketball analysis. While Westbrook's triple-doubles were frequently characterized by aggressive scoring and relentless pursuit of rebounds, Jokic's performances are often marked by exceptional efficiency, unparalleled court vision, and an innate ability to elevate the play of his teammates. His assists often lead to easy baskets, and his rebounding is crucial for initiating fast breaks and controlling the tempo of the game. This holistic approach to statistical accumulation distinguishes him and has made the Nuggets a perennial championship contender.

Looking ahead, the pursuit of Westbrook's record is a tangible goal, but Jokic's focus remains on team success. The Nuggets are in a strong position within the Western Conference, and Jokic's consistent brilliance is the driving force. His ability to adapt his game to the needs of the team, whether it's scoring, assisting, or rebounding, makes him one of the most valuable and impactful players in the league today. The ongoing accumulation of triple-doubles is not merely a personal accolade but a testament to his all-encompassing contribution to winning basketball.

The statistical comparison between Jokic, Robertson, and Westbrook offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of the game and the diverse ways in which players can achieve statistical greatness. Robertson defined the all-around game in a different era, Westbrook redefined statistical volume in the modern era, and Jokic is redefining efficiency and playmaking from the center position. As Jokic continues his ascent, the record books will undoubtedly be rewritten multiple times, solidifying his place among the absolute legends of the NBA.

Ekhbary News Agency