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Kendrick Perkins Issues Strong Statement on Nikola Jokic: ‘It’s Time To Have Different Conversations'

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ashish Mathur | Last updated Apr 2, 2025 4:11 PM ET

Former NBA center and current ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins issued a strong statement on Nikola Jokic a day after the Denver Nuggets superstar put up 61 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists against the Golden State Warriors.

Perkins, who won the 2008 championship with the Boston Celtics, believes it's time people talk about where Jokic is on the all-time player rankings list.

Jokic is a three-time MVP and a one-time champion. He's first in NBA history in player efficiency rating and third in triple-doubles.

"It’s time to have different conversations about Jokic," Perkins said. "He’s already a top 20 greatest player of all time. Now you start to ask, where do we rank (him) as far as top centers? Knocking at the door at No.5."

Jokic has career averages of 21.7 points, 10.9 rebounds and 7.2 assists. He's made seven All-Star teams and six (it will be seven after this season) All-NBA teams.

Jokic guided the Nuggets to the 2023 championship against the Miami Heat. He won the Finals MVP Award and could win his fourth MVP this season, although most people believe Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will win MVP this season since OKC has the top record in the NBA.

Jokic is undoubtedly one of the greatest players in NBA history.

However, for him to become a Mount Rushmore center player, he likely has to win at least one more championship.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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