Several fans and analysts remain intensely divided about the 2025 NBA MVP race between Nikola Jokić and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. During a recent episode of his “Big Podcast with Shaq,” basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal broke down why Jokić’s game is so special — and why he believes the Denver Nuggets star stands above the rest.
O’Neal didn’t hold back as he detailed what separates Jokić from other MVP candidates, highlighting a quality that makes him nearly impossible to defend.
Shaquille O’Neal Highlights Unique 2-Way Threat of Nikola Jokić
On his podcast, O’Neal zeroed in on the versatility that makes Jokić one of the toughest covers in the NBA.
“You know what I like about Joker, though? He shuts both sides up,” O’Neal said.
O’Neal explained that few big men can match Jokić’s footwork and post moves, while also being able to step out and consistently knock down 3s.
“Like I’ll say, go in the post. Can’t guard him in the post moves he’s doing, and then he’ll step out and shoot that three. Yeah.”
Jokić also creates constant mismatch problems. Traditional centers can’t keep up with him on the perimeter, and smaller defenders stand no chance in the paint. His ability to force defenses into uncomfortable spots is part of what keeps him unpredictable.
O’Neal also pointed to Jokić’s consistent production: “He’s putting up big numbers,” he said, noting how Jokić continues to dominate in points, rebounds, and assists night after night.
O’Neal Breaks Down Jokić’s Dominance in MVP Conversation
Beyond his skill set, O’Neal didn’t hesitate to declare his stance on Jokić’s standing in the league: “He’s the best player in the world. Easy right now,” O’Neal proclaimed.
O’Neal also discussed how the evolution of the league has helped a player like Jokić thrive. He believes Jokić’s game was shaped by watching tougher, more physical eras of basketball and adapting his style for today’s faster, more versatile NBA.
“I think by him growing up in the era that he played against with us, it mentally changed the way he played the game because yeah, after the era that we played in left, he’s dominating. There’s nobody even to come.”
Jokić’s ability to evolve with the game — ditching the purely physical style for a smarter, more skilled approach — is a big reason why he stands out. O’Neal also gave Jokić props for his basketball IQ, especially in crunch-time situations: “Jokić will take some 3s, but he’ll never settle when the game’s on the line.”
That decision-making under pressure, combined with his all-around game, further solidified O’Neal’s MVP pick.
In the end, O’Neal’s praise adds even more weight to Jokić’s MVP case. Calling him the “best player in the world” and highlighting his unmatched versatility, O’Neal made it clear: When it comes to the 2025 MVP conversation, Jokić has earned every bit of the spotlight.
