In today’s NBA landscape, one name continues to rise above the rest: Nikola Jokić. The Serbian big man has become a force of nature, reimagining what it means to be a center in modern basketball. He’s a two-time MVP, an NBA champion, and arguably the most complete player in the league today.

But it’s not just the fans or media praising Jokić—it’s the legends of the game who are standing up and taking notice. Former NBA superstars and Hall of Famers are now speaking out about what makes Jokić so unstoppable, and why his game is fundamentally changing the league.

Magic Johnson: “He sees the game two steps ahead”

Lakers legend Magic Johnson, widely regarded as one of the best passers in NBA history, recently had high praise for Jokić’s vision and decision-making.

“What I see in Nikola is special,” said Magic. “He plays like a point guard in a center’s body. The way he reads defenses—it’s like watching a chess master at work.”

Magic emphasized how rare it is to find a big man who not only scores efficiently but also acts as a primary playmaker for his team. Jokić’s ability to run the offense through the high post, elbow, or even at the top of the key is something Magic believes is transforming how teams think about the center position.

Shaquille O’Neal: “He’s dominating without bullying”

For a man who made his career out of brute force and dominance in the paint, Shaquille O’Neal is amazed at how Jokić controls the game in an entirely different way.

“When I played, I was trying to break the rim and break your spirit,” Shaq said. “Jokić is breaking you down with his brain.”

Shaq pointed out how Jokić doesn’t rely on athleticism, but on footwork, timing, and basketball IQ. Despite lacking elite speed or vertical explosiveness, Jokić leads the league in touches, assists from the post, and efficiency.

“The guy doesn’t even look like he’s trying,” Shaq laughed. “But he’s killing everybody. That’s real skill.”

Dirk Nowitzki: “He’s changing the blueprint for big men”

As someone who stretched the definition of a power forward during his own legendary career, Dirk Nowitzki sees Jokić as the next step in the evolution of skilled bigs.

“I made my career with shooting,” Dirk said, “but Jokić is doing everything—passing, rebounding, scoring, leading. He’s a full-package player, and he’s making it look easy.”

Dirk highlighted Jokić’s ability to hit floaters, three-pointers, and mid-range shots while also being a passing hub and rebounding machine. He believes Jokić’s style will inspire a new generation of big men who value skill and IQ over pure athleticism.

Tim Duncan: “He wins by playing the right way”

Tim Duncan, known for his fundamentals and team-first mentality, sees something familiar in Jokić’s game.

“Jokić doesn’t chase highlight plays,” Duncan said. “He just makes the right play, over and over again.”

Tim praised Jokić’s humility, consistency, and calm demeanor. While today’s NBA often rewards flash, Jokić stands out by doing the simple things well—every single night.

Duncan added,

“That’s the kind of player you build dynasties around.”

Why NBA Legends Respect Jokić So Much

So what is it exactly about Jokić that draws admiration from some of the greatest to ever play the game?

Unselfishness
Jokić leads by example, always looking to involve his teammates. He’s made average players look elite by putting them in perfect positions to succeed.

Basketball IQ
His court vision and understanding of spacing, timing, and movement are off the charts. It’s no exaggeration to say he’s the smartest big man in the game today.

Consistency
Night in and night out, Jokić delivers. There are no disappearing acts. He shows up, plays smart, and makes his team better every time.

Winning Mentality
He doesn’t care about headlines. He cares about wins. His 2023 championship run with Denver was a masterclass in playoff performance.

Humble Leadership
Jokić doesn’t demand attention, but he commands respect. He leads without ego, and teammates rally around that.

Changing the Center Position Forever

For decades, the center position was defined by strength, shot-blocking, and dominance near the rim. From Kareem to Shaq to Dwight Howard, being a center meant being the most physically imposing player on the floor.

Jokić has rewritten that narrative.

Today, the modern center can be a floor general, a shooter, and a strategist. And Jokić is the prototype. He isn’t just adapting to the game—he’s redefining it.

You now see more teams drafting and developing bigs who can handle the ball, shoot, and make decisions on the fly. That’s Jokić’s influence.

What’s Next for Jokić?

Despite already securing two MVPs and a championship, Jokić shows no signs of slowing down. His performances are still improving, and his leadership is helping the Denver Nuggets remain championship contenders.

Many believe he has the potential to become one of the top 10 players of all time if he continues this trajectory.

Even players like Kevin Garnett and Charles Barkley—known for their tough-love approach—have recently said that Jokić is “already an all-time great” and “a once-in-a-generation basketball mind.”

Final Thoughts: Dominance Without Ego

In an NBA era dominated by brand-building, social media moments, and highlight culture, Nikola Jokić is a breath of fresh air. He doesn’t care about MVP campaigns or magazine covers. He cares about playing the right way—and winning.

And it’s that quiet, relentless excellence that has caught the attention of the legends who paved the way.

When names like Magic, Shaq, Dirk, and Duncan praise a player, the world listens. And in Jokić, they see something rare: a player who doesn’t just put up numbers—he changes the game.

So while debates over “flashiest scorer” or “best dunker” may continue, one thing is becoming increasingly clear:

Nikola Jokić is dominating the NBA—on his own terms.