Dwight Howard chooses himself in hypothetical matchup with Nikola Jokic

As a three-time Defensive Player of the Year and eight-time All-NBA selection with multiple seasons leading the league in blocks and rebounds, Howard was a force in the paint during his peak years in the Association. Along with his leaping ability and great timing for blocking shots, he had the lateral quickness needed to protect the rim, though back problems sped up a decline in play through his (thus far) last four NBA seasons from 2018-22.

Yet Howard was a throwback of sorts at the center position, playing more of a post-up offense and within the immediacy of the basket on defense. Jokic is a far different beast at the pivot with his ability to move all around the court as a shooter and distributor.

Where a one-on-one encounter would have to be won, however, is on the weaker side of the court. Howard was never known as an efficient operator in the post despite being the primary option during his peak days with the Orlando Magic. Jokic is roundly criticized as a poor defensive player, though he's a very good rebounder.

Howard played against Jokic in 18 games (including five games in the 2020 Western Conference Finals) from 2019-22. Howard was in his second and third stints with the Los Angeles Lakers and one season in Philadelphia. In 13 regular season meetings, Jokic had per game averages of 16.8 points, 9.8 rebounds, 5.4 assists and 1.1 steals against Howard's 11.9 points and 8.8 rebounds. In their lone playoff meeting, Jokic had even more dominant numbers against Howard (who was mainly a reserve) but was also getting worked on the other end of the court by Anthony Davis.