What Shaquille O'Neal Said About Nikola Jokic's Form After Recent Nuggets Win

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Svyato Rovenchuk | Last updated Jan 23, 2025 11:22 AM ET

Nikola Jokic is so brilliant at playing the game of basketball that it is difficult to not given him his flower at every turn. NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal made sure to do so after the Denver Nuggets' recent victory.

The Nuggets superstar recorded another triple-double against the Philadelphia 76ers, dropping 27 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists in the 144-109 blowout. Jokic accomplished that feat in only 30 minutes on the court.

No matter what opinion one may hold of O'Neal, there is no doubt that Shaq knows a thing or two about being an elite big man. The Los Angeles Lakers legend turned analyst is one of the most decorated players at the position in the NBA's long history.

When all is said and done for Jokic's career, it sounds like Shaq believes the Serbian big man will join him in the all-time ranks. O'Neal gave the following statement on air for NBA on TNT.

“He can do both, when he needs to go inside, he can do that. When he needs to go outside, he does that too. He’ll go down as one of the best. He plays the right way. I respect the man a lot.”

-Shaquille O'Neal

Jokic's run as the best player in the world has delivered an impressive individual level of play that can rival almost anyone throughout league history. The even more impressive part about this run should be his nearly undisputed claim to that top spot that he has possessed over this dominant period.

With no signs of slowing down, Jokic should be well on track to be a part of many all-time debate by the time he retires from the game.

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

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