In a league full of stars, two names stood out in terms of all-around excellence during the 2024-25 NBA regular season: Jayson Tatum and Nikola Jokic.
They were the only players to average at least 26.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, 6.0 assists, and 1.0 steal per game while suiting up for at least 65 games — a stat line that not only speaks to production but also to availability and consistency across a long, grueling season.
For Jayson Tatum, this milestone marks another step in his evolution from budding star to full-fledged franchise cornerstone. Leading the Boston Celtics to the top of the Eastern Conference standings, Tatum posted averages of 27.1 PPG, 8.4 RPG, 6.2 APG, and 1.1 SPG while playing in 74 games. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor has become his signature.
Tatum’s scoring continues to shine — he can beat defenders from midrange, beyond the arc, or in the post. But it’s his improved playmaking and defense that have elevated him into true MVP conversations. Whether he’s drawing doubles and finding the open man or locking in on an opposing star wing, Tatum has grown into one of the most complete forwards in the league.
Then there’s Nikola Jokic — the three-time MVP and the engine of the Denver Nuggets. The Serbian center continues to redefine what it means to be a big man in today’s NBA. Jokic averaged 26.4 PPG, 12.1 RPG, 9.3 APG, and 1.4 SPG in 79 games — making this statistical achievement look routine.
What sets Jokic apart is how effortlessly he controls the game. He scores when needed, rebounds at an elite level, and serves as perhaps the best passing big man the sport has ever seen. Whether he’s tossing no-look dimes, orchestrating the offense from the high post, or running the fast break like a guard, Jokic’s versatility is unmatched.
Both players share a rare combination of scoring, rebounding, passing, and defense — the kind of all-around game that teams dream of building around. And their durability this season, playing well above the new minimum games threshold for postseason awards, only adds to their value.
In an era dominated by load management and specialization, Tatum and Jokic prove that it’s still possible to do it all — and do it night in and night out.
With the playoffs in full swing, both players are continuing to shine under the bright lights. Whether it’s Tatum trying to guide Boston back to the Finals, or Jokic looking to defend Denver’s title, one thing is clear:
These two aren’t just stars — they’re pillars of excellence in the modern NBA.
And in a league filled with talent, that’s what separates greatness from everyone else.
