Dirk Nowitzki Praises Nikola Jokić’s All-Around Game

Nowitzki on Jokić’s unique dominance

Former NBA star Dirk Nowitzki recently raved about Nikola Jokić, highlighting what makes the Denver center so special. Nowitzki pointed to Jokić’s extraordinary feel for the game — his basketball IQ, vision and passing — and said those skills more than compensate for any perceived lack of elite athleticism.

He noted Jokić’s combination of size and technique makes him hard to guard: smaller defenders struggle to contain him in the post, while bigger opponents get pulled away from the rim by his shooting and playmaking. Add in his rebounding and the threat he poses from long range, and you have a player who can control matchups in multiple ways.

Season snapshot and health update

Through the first 12 games of the 2025–26 regular season, Jokić has put up stellar numbers: about 28.7 points, 13.0 rebounds and 10.9 assists per game, along with roughly 1.8 steals and 0.8 blocks, and seven triple-doubles. Those stats underline his rare all-around impact.

Jokić has been dealing with a left wrist sprain but was listed as probable for the upcoming home game against the Chicago Bulls at Ball Arena. If he plays, expect him to continue influencing the game in a variety of ways, from finishing in the paint to initiating offense as a primary playmaker.