Nikola Jokić

Slower-paced, methodical offensive attacks and defensively-minded gameplans by opponents are, in theory at least, supposed to make producing never-before-seen box scores and highlights a more difficult process come playoff time. Seven postseasons into his journey as one of NBA history’s great high-pressure performers, Nikola Jokić continues leaving it abundantly clear that this memo wasn’t received. Teetering on the brink of a 3-1 series hole if the Denver Nuggets’ late-game execution falters, the three-time Most Valuable Player supplies balance through a tried-and-true approach, putting Ivica Zubac through every high-post pivot and pump fake possible. Ultimately finding enough of a crevice for his trademark “Sombor Shuffle,” Jokić cashes in from midrange, gifting Denver a two-point edge with 16 seconds remaining. A similarly-distinctive game-winning dunk by Jokić’s frontcourt running mate helped ensure a season-saving win, but extraordinary play could be found both individually and cohesively on April 26, 2025. Jokić’s latest must-see statline included 36 points (on 14-of-25 shooting), 21 rebounds, eight assists, two steals, one block, and three 3-pointers, predictably the first of its kind on the playoff stage.