Kerr's Bold Claim: Steve Kerr stated he believes Nikola Jokic is the best center he's ever seen, emphasizing Jokic's versatile capabilities that even Kareem Abdul-Jabbar didn't possess in his era.
Jokic's Dominance: The three-time MVP is potentially on track to become the first center ever to average a triple-double for a season (currently averaging 29.7 points, 12.8 rebounds, 10.2 assists as of the source articles). He also leads the league in Player Efficiency Rating (PER) for the fifth consecutive season.
Modern Skill Set: Kerr highlighted Jokic's intelligence, competitiveness, and unprecedented skill combination, including remarkable passing and efficient scoring from anywhere on the court, including a career-high in made three-pointers this season.
Era Comparison: Kerr acknowledged the difficulty of comparing eras but stressed that Jokic is performing feats never seen before in the modern game.
Widespread Talent: Kerr also commented on the overall skill level in the current NBA, noting spectacular recent performances like Jokic's 61-point triple-double and Steph Curry's 52-point game, suggesting this level of talent might be taken for granted.
Why this matters: Praise from a highly respected basketball mind like Kerr, who has won nine NBA titles combined as a player and coach, adds significant weight to the argument for Jokic's place among the all-time greats. It sparks debate and appreciation for Jokic's unique impact on the center position and the game itself.
Steve Kerr's assertion that Nikola Jokic is the "best center I've ever seen" resonates deeply within the basketball community, primarily because of Kerr's own storied history and basketball acumen. While acknowledging the greatness of players like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kerr points to Jokic's expansive skill set as the differentiator. "Kareem couldn't do all this stuff," Kerr remarked, referring to Jokic's blend of scoring, rebounding, elite playmaking, and outside shooting – abilities not typically combined in centers of previous eras.
Jokic's statistical output supports Kerr's view. Averaging near a triple-double as a center is unprecedented, showcasing his ability to impact the game in every facet. His league-leading PER for five straight years speaks to his consistent efficiency and dominance. Furthermore, his development into a potent three-point shooter (over 41% and a career-high in makes) stretches defenses in ways traditional centers could not.
Beyond the stats, Kerr lauded Jokic's basketball IQ and competitiveness, calling him "one of the smartest players ever." Analysts echo this, often describing Jokic as perhaps the best passer in NBA history, regardless of position, capable of anticipating plays before they happen. His methodical pace and creative footwork allow him to score effectively despite not possessing traditional explosive athleticism.
Kerr's comments also serve as a broader appreciation for the current state of the NBA. Citing recent high-scoring games by Jokic and his own player, Stephen Curry, Kerr suggested fans and analysts might be normalizing extraordinary displays of skill. He believes the talent level across the league has "never been more skilled." While debates comparing players across different eras are inherently subjective, Kerr's statement firmly places Jokic in the conversation of the greatest centers, and potentially greatest players, of all time, even with much of his career likely still ahead.
Q: Why did Steve Kerr call Nikola Jokic the best center he's seen over Kareem Abdul-Jabbar?
A: Kerr attributed it to Jokic's modern, all-around skill set, particularly his elite passing and shooting range, stating, "Kareem couldn't do all this stuff," while acknowledging that different eras shape players' games.
Q: What makes Nikola Jokic's game so unique?
A: Jokic combines elite scoring (from inside and outside), rebounding, and arguably the best passing vision in the league, regardless of position. He is currently on pace to be the first center to average a triple-double for a season.
Q: How significant is Steve Kerr's opinion?
A: Kerr has won five NBA championships as a player and four as a coach, giving his perspective considerable weight in basketball discussions.
Appreciate the unique talent of Nikola Jokic, whose combination of skills is reshaping the center position in the NBA.
Recognize the incredibly high level of skill present in today's NBA, as highlighted by Kerr.
Understand that while comparing players across eras is complex, Jokic has firmly established himself as one of the all-time great players based on his performance and impact.
The debate about the greatest players of all time is always fascinating. Do you agree with Steve Kerr? Is Nikola Jokic the best center you've ever seen? Let us know your thoughts!
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Source 1: Steve Kerr Calls Nikola Jokic 'Best Center' Ever, 'Kareem Couldn't Do All This' - Bleacher Report target="_blank"
Source 2: Kerr had NBA revelation after watching Steph, Jokić's monster games - Yahoo Sports target="_blank"
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