Nikola Jokić Leads NBA in Rebounds and Assists

Nikola Jokić is poised to accomplish something no one in NBA history has ever done, leading the league in both rebounds and assists per game.

What's at Stake?

He currently averages 12.5 rebounds and 10.4 assists per game, both of which lead the entire NBA. The Denver Nuggets star has been consistent in his performance despite missing the most games of his career.

Historical Context

Wilt Chamberlain came close to achieving this feat in the 1967-68 season, but Oscar Robertson averaged more assists per game. Russell Westbrook also had a chance to achieve this during his peak triple-double days, but team rebounding mattered more back then. Nikola Jokić needs to appear in at least eight of the Nuggets' final 16 games to remain eligible for the league leader title.

The Road to History

Jokić holds a 0.6 rebound per game lead over Karl-Anthony Towns and a 0.5 assist per game lead over Cade Cunningham. With roughly 16-18 games to go, these leads are not insurmountable, but Jokić has always been consistent in his production. He is on track to average a triple-double for the second straight season, with 28.6 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 10.4 assists per game. The NBA hasn't seen a player lead the league in both rebounds and assists per game, making this a historic achievement for Nikola Jokić.

What Comes Next?

If Jokić maintains his standing, he will make history and redefine NBA record books. His iron man history suggests he will be able to play in enough games to remain eligible. Nikola Jokić's consistent performance has been impressive, despite his team's slide down the standings. He is still doing what he does best, averaging a triple-double and leading the league in key statistics. The final games of the season will be crucial in determining if Nikola Jokić will make history.