Dwight Howard asserts that his prime is better than Nikola Jokic’s.
On a recent episode of Run It Back, Howard was asked who he’d take in their prime, himself or Jokic. The three-time Defensive Player of the Year confidently chose himself. Furthermore, he doubled down, saying, “I’m dominating every play with a smile on my face.”
“Oh, prime Dwight Howard,” the 37-year-old said. “All day. All day, every day. I’m dominating every play with a smile on my face. Yeah, Yeah, I’m here, I’m here. I’m taking prime Dwight all day.”
Howard vs. Jokic
Of course, this is merely another hypothetical that we’ll never get to see play out in reality. However, it is interesting to ponder.
On the one hand, Howard, at the peak of his powers, is one of the greatest defensive players in NBA history. To go along with his three consecutive Defensive Player of the Year awards, the former Magic also has five All-Defense selections, two block titles, and five rebounding awards.
Also, his ability to lead a team is oftentimes overlooked. During his eight-straight All-Star and All-NBA appearances, Howard averaged 19.5 points and never missed the playoffs. Moreover, he led Orlando to the Finals in 2009.
Conversely, Jokic, who is still in the midst of his prime, is one of the greatest offensive players ever. Currently on a five-All-Star and All-NBA streak, the 27-year-old is averaging 23.5 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 8.0 assists. Moreover, he is a two-time, back-to-back MVP.
Jokic is also a scintillating postseason performer. For his career, he is averaging 27.3 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 7.3 assists. In this year’s playoffs, he is posting a triple-double a game, with 29.9 points, 13.3 rebounds and 10.3 assists. Additionally, he surpassed Wilt Chamberlain for the most triple-doubles in a postseason run and led the Nuggets to their first Finals berth in franchise history.
If Jokic wins the championship this season, it could potentially put the debate between him and Howard to bed.
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