Shaq tells Nikola Jokic that someone else should have won NBA MVP award

NBA

by christian arnold

Shaquille O'Neal is never afraid to share his opinions, and when he spoke with Nikola Jokic on “Inside the NBA” shortly after the “Joker” was named NBA MVP for the 2023-24 season, That's exactly what I did.

TNT had Jokic discuss this with the “Inside the NBA” crew, during which O'Neal told Jokic that he should have been the league's MVP over the Nuggets' center through Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

“Joker as president of the Big Man Alliance – you’re the vice president of the Big Man Alliance – you know I love you. Congratulations to the best player in the league.” O’Neal said. I started saying this. “Let me start by saying that I think MVP should have been SGA. No offense to you, but congratulations.”

The former NBA star and analyst continued to ask Jokic about what the Nuggets can do to get back into the series against the Timberwolves.

Jokic didn't immediately respond to Shaq's comments, instead making a quick joke.

“Thank you, Shaq, we don't judge people here. That's fine, that's your opinion,” the now three-time NBA MVP said before bursting into laughter. “just kidding.”

“Hey, it's okay,” O'Neal replied. “I love you. I love you brother. One of the things we always try to do is keep each other real. Congratulations, I love you.”

Jokic beat out Gilgeous-Alexander and Luka Doncic for the award, receiving 79 of the 99 first-place votes.

In a season in which Denver won 57 regular season games, Jokic averaged 26.4 points, 12.4 rebounds and 9.0 assists.

Gilgeous-Alexander averaged 31.0 points, 6.2 assists, and 5.5 rebounds, leading the Thunder to the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference.

“There are actually a lot of players who deserve it,” Jokic said.

The Nuggets are currently in the middle of their second series against the Timberwolves, trailing 2-0.