Nikola Jokić just locked in his 34th triple-double of the season. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander? He’s leading the league in scoring, cracking 30 almost nightly, while anchoring one of the youngest rosters in the West. This isn’t just an MVP race—it’s a generational crossroads. And not everyone’s betting on the reigning king.
Not only are his offenses sharp, Shai has also made a strong case on the defensive end. However, Jokic is putting up historic numbers. Gilbert Arenas had a lot to say on the debate during his latest interview with DJ Vlad.
Snubbing his initial choice, Agent Zero favored Shai. “I think Shai’s going to get it,” he said. However, he also pointed out the Serbian player’s thunderous performance. Explaining his reason for the choice, he added, “He’s (Jokic) a pass-first player. So because he passes first, he’s a point guard, but because he’s also a scorer that’s second nature to him. So he’s gonna always pull in 20 25, but what Shai’s doing, you can’t just say, “We’ve seen this before.” You’ve never seen it before.”
LOS ANGELES, CA – JULY 16: Retired NBA basketball player Gilbert Arenas attends The Rise Challenge presented by Kmart at Microsoft Square at LA Live on July 16, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Keipher McKennie/WireImage)
He also highlighted how the Oklahoma City Thunder have a young roster and are still winning. Thunder’s coach, Mark Daigneault, is also praised for his unique efforts as he is one of the favorite contenders for NBA Coach of the Year honor.
Returning to Arenas’ initial endorsement of Jokic, he recorded 26 points, 13 assists, and 16 rebounds in his game against the Grizzlies, securing his 34th triple-double of the season. He is the third NBA player to average a triple-double for an entire season, following Russell Westbrook and Oscar Robertson. Not to mention that this will also be the first time Jokić averages double digits in assists.
Arenas is not alone in this opinion. A former Clippers star player seemingly hinted at it, too.
Pat Beverley explains bold Shai Gilgeous’ take
Jokic is a 3x MVP winner. No one can argue how much of a fantastic season he is having. This season’s MVP Race has even left NBA analyst Shaquille O’Neal baffled on who will win the honor. However, the recent upheaval at the Nuggets’ front office led the Pat Bev Podcast to come out with a differing opinion.
The Denver Nuggets recently dismissed both head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth following a four-game losing streak. Reports indicate that the decision stemmed from escalating tensions between Malone and Booth, particularly over player development strategies, leading to a deteriorating team environment.
In this context, Pat Beverley offered a candid perspective on his podcast, questioning the optics of awarding the MVP to a player whose team underwent such significant mid-season changes. He remarked:
“I don’t know a guy who’s gotten MVP, and his coach got fired in the same year. You’re a star player. Your coach got fired. How the f–k did your coach get fired? You know, that’s what you get as a star.”
The MVP conversation has evolved. What was once a debate over raw statistics has transformed into a discussion about leadership and stability. Jokić’s individual brilliance is unquestionable, but the recent turmoil within the Nuggets’ ranks raises valid concerns.
Beverly has questioned conventional wisdom. Perhaps it’s time for a reevaluation of what it means to be the most valuable player. Is it really possible for a coach to get fired if a “star” player thrives in their team? If yes, why are they still struggling? In a season defined by uncertainty, the MVP might not be the player with the best numbers but the one who has overcome the most
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