The 2024-25 NBA season has been a thrilling showcase of talent. But two players have been on the spotlight, thanks to their phenomenal stats. They are none other than Nikola Jokić of the Denver Nuggets and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) of the Oklahoma City Thunder.
These two talented stars have redefined the definition of being a dominant force in the modern game. While Jokić continues to revolutionize the center position with his playmaking and versatility, SGA has cemented himself as one of the league’s top-tier scorers and overall players. Here’s a comparative look at their 2024-25 NBA Stats.
Nikola Jokić vs Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Stats 2024-25
Nikola Jokić’s 2024-25 performance serves as a testament to his all-around gameplay. The reigning three-time MVP has taken his game to new heights. Over the course of the season, Jokić is averaging 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game as per NBA site. His scoring efficiency has been phenomenal, with a field goal percentage of 57.6%.
Along with this, he’s also shooting 36.7% from beyond the arc. Jokić leads the NBA in triple-doubles with 34, a feat that no other player has come close to matching. His basketball IQ and passing ability allow him to orchestrate Denver’s offense as a center. This is therefore something that is rarely seen in NBA history.
However what sets Jokić apart are his assist numbers that are historically high for a center, as he regularly logs more assists than many point guards in the league. His passing vision and decision-making enable him to be a point center, often running the offense for Denver. This unselfish style of play is a major reason why the Nuggets sat near the top of the Western Conference.
Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has left his impression as one of the league’s top scorers. The 25-year-old has consistently dominated offensively, finishing the 2024-25 regular season with a league-leading 33.0 points per game. He has done this with remarkable efficiency, shooting 52.6% from the field and 37.1% from three. His ability to get to the free-throw line makes this even more impressive. Here, he shoots an exceptional 89.8%, making him one of the best in the league in that regard.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s game is centered around his versatility. He is equally effective driving to the basket, hitting mid-range shots, and scoring three-pointers when needed. SGA is especially dangerous in isolation situations, where his blend of size, length, and quickness makes him a defenders’ nightmare. Along with the scoring, he contributes to other areas, with averages of 5.4 rebounds, 5.6 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. His ability to impact the game in a variety of ways has been a key factor in Oklahoma City’s march to the Western Conference Finals.
Defensive Impact and MVP Debate: Nikola Jokić vs Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Stats 2024-25
While both players are known for their offensive brilliance, their defensive contributions are also noteworthy. Jokić, who faced criticism early in his career for his defense, silenced the critics later as an effective and versatile defender. His size (6’11”, 284 lbs) allows him to be a force in the paint. But his high basketball IQ and awareness elevates his defense. His rebounding ability, averaging at 13.7 boards per game, provides his team with a strong presence on both ends of the floor.
On the other hand, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a standout perimeter defender. His 1.7 steals per game showcase his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. Therefore, he is often seen, frequently guarding the best players on the opposing team.
SGA’s length (6’6″) and quickness make him a menace in passing lanes. His skills to create fast-break opportunities off steals is another asset that contributes to the Thunder’s success in the Western Conference. While he’s not known for blocking shots, he does a great job of contesting them and forcing difficult shots.
Both Jokić and SGA’s well-rounded contributions are evident in the MVP race. While Jokić’s historical triple-doubles and efficiency earned him a place in the conversation, it was Shai Gilgeous-Alexander who won the 2025 NBA MVP award, finishing the season with 913 points in the MVP voting.
Jokić, who had an outstanding season of his own, finished second with 787 points. SGA’s MVP recognition is a testament to his incredible season, and his ability to lead a young Thunder team to playoff contention. The Oklahoma City Thunder are edging closer to an NBA final, currently leading 3-1 in the Western Conference Finals after Game 4 in the series against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
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