In a league stacked with talent, choosing the top players is no easy task, but one eight-time NBA All-Star made headlines recently by ranking Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic above Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid. This selection came as the former All-Star revealed his top five favorite players, sparking debate among fans and analysts alike.
Jokic, who led the Nuggets to an NBA Championship in 2023 and won back-to-back MVP awards in 2021 and 2022, has long been regarded as one of the most unique talents in the league. His combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ allows him to dominate in ways that defy traditional positions. While Embiid, the reigning MVP as of 2023, is a dominant force in his own right, the All-Star’s pick highlights the ongoing debate between the two centers as to who reigns supreme in today’s NBA.
The eight-time All-Star, who remains unnamed, explained his reasoning by pointing to Jokic’s all-around game. “Jokic is the ultimate team player,” he said. “He can score, pass, and rebound, and he makes everyone around him better. His ability to control the game with his vision and unselfishness is what sets him apart.”
Embiid, known for his scoring prowess and defensive impact, didn’t go unrecognized, but the All-Star placed more value on Jokic’s versatility and leadership. “Embiid is a beast, no doubt, but Jokic is different. What he does on the court is special, and it’s something we don’t see often.”
The rest of the All-Star’s top five favorites included LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Stephen Curry. These selections reflect a balance between dominance, versatility, and championship pedigree, with Jokic earning the nod as the top big man in the league.
As the debate between Jokic and Embiid continues, this endorsement from a former All-Star only adds to the intrigue. With both players at the peak of their careers, the rivalry between them promises to be a focal point in the NBA for years to come.