Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets continued his streak of remarkable performances on Friday night in a victory over the Portland Trail Blazers. Jokic became the first player in NBA history to finish with 27 points, 22 rebounds, 12 assists, two blocks, and one steal, according to Basketball Reference’s StatHead.
It should be noted that Wilt Chamberlain and Elgin Baylor are the only other players in league history to have at least 27 points, 22 rebounds, and 12 assists in a single game, but blocks and steals were not recorded at the time, thus they are not included here.
While Baylor only had one game with at least 27 points, 22 rebounds, and 12 assists, Chamberlain had 12 of them, therefore it’s almost certain that he also had two blocks and a steal. Baylor may have done the same thing.
Having said that, Jokic is at least the third best player in NBA history, and the only one since the league began collecting blocks and steals. It was again another remarkable performance for the reigning Finals MVP, who is reaching new heights as his team prepares to defend its title.