Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokic is the standard for many players and pundits in the NBA today.
The former league champion and three-time MVP is quickly climbing the all-time player rankings, and when it comes to who rules the NBA, the discussion always seems to lead back to the Serbian maestro.
Don’t tell San Antonio Spurs phenom Victor Wembanyama that.
In an interview with ESPN for the upcoming NBA Cup semifinals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the 7′4″ French phenom didn’t hold back when asked who he believes the best player in the NBA is today.
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“Jokic is the best offensive player… I don’t think he’s the best [overall] player,” said Wembanyama. “I think it’s between Giannis and Shai. When I come back on the court, I think it’ll be me.”
While Jokic has dazzled with his soft scoring touch and masterful passing, his defense has often been criticized as a main reason he might not be the best the NBA has to offer. Webanyama, a titan on the defensive end, takes over games without ever needing to shoot, stifling attacking players anywhere near the Spurs’ basket.
Wembanyama has been sidelined for a month with a calf strain, keeping him out of action.
He is expected to return on Saturday night in the NBA Cup semifinals to face off against one of those players he named as the true best in basketball, reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.