Business
Has Nikola Jokic Already Surpassed Shaq as NBA’s Best Center? Debate Explodes
DENVER — Nikola Jokic continues his remarkable run as one of the most dominant and versatile centers in NBA history, prompting renewed debate whether the Denver Nuggets star has already surpassed Shaquille O’Neal in overall impact, skill and statistical brilliance — even as O’Neal’s four championships and three Finals MVPs keep him ahead in the championship pedigree that often defines legacies.

With the 2025-26 season winding down, Jokic, now 31, is posting numbers that rival or exceed O’Neal’s prime in several categories while redefining the center position with elite passing, shooting and basketball IQ. Yet the Serbian big man still trails O’Neal in hardware, with one NBA title to Shaq’s four, leaving the “better player” question as much about era, style and team success as raw talent.
Career averages tell part of the story. O’Neal, over 19 seasons and 1,207 games, posted 23.7 points, 10.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 0.6 steals and 2.3 blocks per game on 58.2% shooting. Jokic, in his 11th season through roughly 805 games as of early April 2026, sits at 22.2 points, 11.1 rebounds and a staggering 7.5 assists, with 1.3 steals and 0.7 blocks on efficient shooting that includes significant three-point range.
Jokic’s assist numbers alone set him apart. No traditional center has approached his playmaking. In the 2025-26 season, he has flirted with triple-double averages, leading the league in rebounds and assists at times while ranking among top scorers. Analysts have noted stretches where his scoring efficiency outpaced O’Neal’s best seasons, his rebounding topped Karl Malone’s peaks and his assists exceeded Jason Kidd’s career highs — all while shooting better from distance than Larry Bird in some comparisons.
Advanced metrics further favor Jokic in modern context. His career player efficiency rating and box plus/minus often rank among the highest ever for centers. In peak seasons, Jokic has led the NBA in value over replacement player while carrying the Nuggets to consistent contention. O’Neal dominated with brute force and interior presence, winning the 2000 MVP and three consecutive Finals MVPs from 2000-02 alongside Kobe Bryant in Los Angeles.
The championship disparity looms large. O’Neal captured four rings — three with the Lakers in a dynasty and one with the Miami Heat in 2006 — and earned three Finals MVPs. Jokic led Denver to its first title in 2023, earning Finals MVP with historic playoff averages, including leading all players in points, rebounds and assists in one postseason. But the Nuggets have not repeated, and as of April 2026, Denver sits in a competitive Western Conference without another championship.
Accolades also differ. O’Neal earned one regular-season MVP, 15 All-Star nods, 14 All-NBA selections and multiple scoring titles. Jokic has three MVPs (2021, 2022, 2024), with strong cases in other years, including multiple top-two finishes. He has earned All-Star honors and All-NBA nods consistently, transforming from a second-round draft pick into a perennial superstar.
In the current 2025-26 campaign, Jokic has battled injuries and team inconsistency, dropping him to third or fourth in some MVP ladders behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Luka Doncic and Victor Wembanyama. Yet when healthy, he remains a triple-double machine, with analysts noting his on-court net rating impact often exceeds league leaders. Hall of Fame coach George Karl recently called Jokic the MVP of the past five years, citing his unmatched consistency.
Head-to-head statistical comparisons of their primes show nuances. From 2021-2026 for Jokic versus O’Neal’s 1999-2004 Lakers/Heat peak, Jokic edges in assists and efficiency from range, while Shaq posted higher scoring volume and blocks. Jokic’s ability to stretch the floor and facilitate makes him more adaptable to today’s spacing-oriented game, whereas O’Neal thrived in a physical, post-dominant era with fewer three-point attempts league-wide.
Debate rages among fans and analysts. Some argue Jokic is the more skilled and complete player, a “point center” who elevates teammates like Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon. Others insist O’Neal’s physical dominance — at 7-foot-1 and over 300 pounds — made him unguardable in ways Jokic cannot match one-on-one. “Shaq could bully Jokic in the post,” one analyst noted, while crediting the Joker for superior versatility.
Recent rankings have stirred controversy. The Athletic placed Jokic fifth all-time in one list, ahead of O’Neal and Kevin Durant in some iterations, drawing backlash from Lakers fans who point to rings. Other outlets rank Jokic among the top centers ever, behind legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain but closing on O’Neal and Hakeem Olajuwon.
Jokic’s efficiency stands out. He shoots over 57% from the field career-wide, often higher in recent seasons, while adding 35-40% from three — areas where O’Neal rarely ventured. Free-throw shooting remains a contrast: Shaq’s career 52.7% plagued him in clutch moments, while Jokic converts at a solid 82% clip.
Playoff performances further the discussion. O’Neal averaged 24.3 points and 11.6 rebounds in 216 postseason games. Jokic has delivered in high-stakes series, including his 2023 championship run where he averaged near triple-doubles. Some seasons, Jokic has led the league in playoff advanced stats.
Off the court, both are larger-than-life figures. O’Neal became a cultural icon with movies, music and broadcasting. Jokic maintains a low-key persona, preferring horses in Serbia and avoiding spotlight, yet his on-court genius draws global praise.
As the 2026 playoffs approach, Jokic and the Nuggets seek another deep run. Another title would bolster his case significantly, potentially pushing him past O’Neal in many all-time center rankings. Without it, the debate persists: statistical and skill superiority versus championship dominance.
NBA history values winners, but evolving analytics and eye-test appreciation for playmaking have elevated Jokic. Advanced stats like VORP and BPM often rank his peaks higher. In an era of positionless basketball, his ability to run offenses from the high post or elbow makes him uniquely valuable.
Experts note context matters. O’Neal faced physical defenders in a slower, hand-checking allowed era. Jokic navigates switching defenses, zone schemes and three-point volume. Adjusted for pace and rules, some models suggest Jokic’s impact per possession rivals or exceeds Shaq’s.
Fan and media sentiment splits. Reddit and social media threads show passionate arguments: “Jokic clears Shaq statistically and as a teammate,” versus “Rings are rings — Shaq dominated his era.” YouTube breakdowns and podcasts fuel the fire, with some declaring Jokic already the best passing big ever.
For now, most agree Jokic has not fully surpassed O’Neal due to the championship gap and fewer seasons played. But at 31, with prime years ahead if health holds, Jokic could close that distance. His three MVPs already match or exceed many greats, and consistent top-tier production positions him for Hall of Fame entry on the first ballot.
The Nuggets’ supporting cast and Western Conference strength will influence outcomes. Injuries have occasionally slowed Jokic, as seen in 2025-26 when he missed time, affecting MVP positioning.
Ultimately, comparing across eras is imperfect. O’Neal changed games with his size; Jokic is changing it with skill and vision. Both rank among the greatest centers, with Jokic earning “best of his generation” status while chasing O’Neal’s hardware.
As April 2026 unfolds, the conversation intensifies. Jokic’s nightly masterclasses keep the question alive: Has he surpassed Shaq? In skill and versatility, many say yes. In legacy-defining titles, not yet. The coming playoffs may provide more clues.
Whether Jokic adds another ring or not, his place among basketball immortals is secure — a testament to how the center position has evolved from dominant force to orchestrator supreme.
Business
US judge orders review of Trump’s IRS lawsuit settlement

US judge orders review of Trump’s IRS lawsuit settlement
Business
Search for Mother Nancy Enters 4th Month with No Arrest Despite DNA Leads
The search for Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of “Today” show co-host Savannah Guthrie, approaches four months with authorities confirming the investigation remains active and they anticipate an eventual arrest, though no suspect has been publicly identified.
Guthrie was last seen around 9:45 p.m. on Jan. 31 after a family member dropped her off at her home in the Catalina Foothills area north of Tucson following dinner. She was reported missing the next day when she failed to appear at a friend’s house to watch a church service online.
Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos has repeatedly expressed confidence in solving the case. On the 100-day mark, May 12, he told local station KOLD-TV that investigators would make an arrest “at some point in time” and were not giving up.
“We’re not going to give up on it just because it’s been 100 days,” Nanos said.
More recently, Nanos told outlets that his team is “getting closer,” citing ongoing DNA analysis from labs working on evidence recovered from the home. He confirmed some evidence is being withheld from the public to protect the investigation.
FBI footage and forensic efforts
The FBI released doorbell camera footage on Feb. 10 showing a masked and armed individual at Guthrie’s home in the early morning hours around the time of her disappearance. Mixed DNA, including a hair sample, is being analyzed at the home, along with other items like gloves found nearby.
Authorities have ruled out Guthrie family members as suspects. Nanos previously described the family as “nothing but cooperative and gracious and are victims in this case.”
A combined reward of $1.2 million is offered for information leading to her recovery. Tips continue to come in, though the high volume in the early weeks has slowed.
Recent searches in the surrounding Sonoran Desert terrain turned up human remains on May 7, but experts determined they were prehistoric — hundreds to 1,000 years old — and unrelated to the case. University of Arizona anthropologist James T. Watson examined the bones and artifacts, which were returned to the Tohono O’odham Nation.
Family’s public appeals
Savannah Guthrie marked her first Mother’s Day without her mother with an emotional Instagram Reel on May 10. The video compilation featured family photos and clips over the years, including one where Nancy says, “Miss you.”
In the post, Savannah expressed unwavering resolve. “We will never stop looking for you,” she wrote.
The Guthrie family has released multiple public statements and videos pleading for her safe return. Early in the investigation, they indicated willingness to meet any demands to bring her home safely.
Savannah has since returned to her role on “Today” after stepping away briefly, though the case continues to weigh heavily on the family. Reports indicate she has hired private investigators to supplement official efforts.
Challenges in the investigation
The case has drawn intense national attention due to Savannah Guthrie’s prominence as a co-anchor on NBC’s flagship morning program. Despite that spotlight, progress has been slow in the rugged desert landscape around Tucson, where hiding a person or evidence presents significant difficulties.
Nanos has faced scrutiny over his leadership amid the investigation, including allegations related to his past disciplinary record and a recent $25 million lawsuit involving jail healthcare issues. However, efforts to remove him from office have so far failed.
Investigators continue to review tips and work with federal partners. The sheriff’s department and FBI maintain that the case is not cold and that leads are still being actively pursued.
Details shared by the family paint a disturbing picture: Nancy disappeared in her pajamas without shoes or her medication, with reports of a propped-open door, blood on the doorstep and a disturbed security camera.
Community and law enforcement response
The quiet Catalina Foothills neighborhood has seen heightened activity in the months since the disappearance. Neighbors have been asked to review home security footage, and the area remains under periodic patrol.
As of late May, no new public appeals for specific information have been issued, but officials stress that even small details could prove significant. The investigation involves multiple agencies, with the FBI playing a key role in forensic analysis and tip coordination.
The prolonged uncertainty has taken an emotional toll. Savannah Guthrie and her siblings — Annie and Camron — have spoken of their deep love for their mother and the pain of not knowing her whereabouts. Nancy, a widow since 1988, was known for her close family ties and community involvement.
Ongoing calls for information
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Pima County Sheriff’s Department tip line at 520-351-4900 or the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through official channels.
The case highlights vulnerabilities for elderly residents living alone, even in affluent areas. Security experts have noted the importance of robust home monitoring systems following the doorbell camera evidence.
As the four-month mark arrives on Monday, June 1, the family and investigators continue to hold out hope for Nancy Guthrie’s safe return or a breakthrough that brings closure. The $1.2 million reward stands as one of the largest in recent Arizona missing persons cases, underscoring the urgency.
Pima County officials and the Guthrie family have thanked the public for continued vigilance. While media interest has fluctuated, the commitment from law enforcement remains steady, with Nanos reiterating his team’s dedication.
“We fully 100 percent believe that” the case will be solved, he said in a recent interview.
The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie serves as a stark reminder of the challenges in high-profile abduction cases where initial evidence does not quickly yield a suspect. For now, the search continues across Tucson and beyond, with authorities and family refusing to relent.
Business
Mineralys presents lorundrostat data in kidney disease patients

Mineralys presents lorundrostat data in kidney disease patients
Business
Trump considers dropping Freedom 250 concerts in D.C. after artists pull out

Trump considers dropping Freedom 250 concerts in D.C. after artists pull out
Business
Vir Biotechnology, Inc. (VIR) Presents at EASL Congress 2026 – Slideshow
Vir Biotechnology, Inc. (VIR) Presents at EASL Congress 2026 – Slideshow
Business
Big Insiders Are Buying Upstart Stock Again (NASDAQ:UPST)
Julian Lin is a financial analyst. He finds undervalued companies with secular growth that appreciate over time. His approach is to look for companies with strong balance sheets and management teams in sectors with long growth runways.
Julian is the leader of the investing group Best Of Breed Growth Stocks where he only shares positions in stocks which have a large probability of delivering large alpha relative to the S&P 500. He also combines growth-oriented principles with strict valuation hurdles to add an additional layer to the conventional margin of safety. Features include: exclusive access to Julian’s highest conviction picks, full stock research reports, real-time trade alerts, macro market analysis, individual industry reports, a filtered watchlist, and community chat with access to Julian 24/7. Learn more.
Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of AFRM either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Seeking Alpha’s Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
Business
Important Warning For Dividend Investors: 4 Dangerous Misconceptions Quietly Sabotaging Your Portfolio
Important Warning For Dividend Investors: 4 Dangerous Misconceptions Quietly Sabotaging Your Portfolio
Business
Canada’s broader citizenship rules draw strong American interest, data shows

Canada’s broader citizenship rules draw strong American interest, data shows
Business
Where to Watch Live Stream and Full Broadcast Details
Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal face off Saturday in the UEFA Champions League final at Puskás Aréna, capping a dramatic season with defending champions PSG seeking a repeat title and Arsenal chasing a historic double after their Premier League triumph.
The highly anticipated clash, pitting French flair against English resilience, kicks off at 18:00 local time (12 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. BST). Fans worldwide are seeking clear options to watch the livestream as the match draws a global audience estimated in the hundreds of millions.
Match venue and buildup
Puskás Aréna in Budapest, Hungary, hosts its first Champions League final. The 67,000-capacity stadium, named after Hungarian legend Ferenc Puskás, provides a neutral and electric setting for the showdown.
PSG, led by manager Luis Enrique, enters as defending champions after a strong campaign featuring key victories over top European sides. Arsenal, managed by Mikel Arteta, topped the league phase undefeated and aims for its first Champions League title in club history while completing a domestic-European double.
Pre-match tension is high, with both squads boasting star power. Arsenal relies on attackers like Bukayo Saka, while PSG features dynamic talents including Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Fitness updates and tactical battles, particularly on the flanks, will shape the contest.
Where to watch in the United States
In the U.S., CBS holds primary broadcast rights for English-language coverage. The network airs the match live starting with pre-game shows around 11 a.m. ET. Paramount+ provides the official livestream, offering multiple camera angles, expert analysis and on-demand replays.
Additional streaming services carrying CBS or Paramount+ include YouTube TV, DirecTV Stream, fuboTV and Hulu + Live TV. For Spanish-language viewers, Univision, TUDN and ViX deliver coverage.
Paramount+ subscribers can access the game on supported devices including smart TVs, mobile apps and web browsers. A Paramount+ with SHOWTIME plan may be required in some cases for full sports access. Free trials are sometimes available but vary by provider.
United Kingdom and Europe viewing options
UK fans turn to TNT Sports 1 for live coverage, with programming beginning around 3 p.m. BST ahead of the 5 p.m. kickoff. TNT Sports Ultimate offers enhanced feeds. HBO Max serves as the primary streaming platform for subscribers.
This marks the first Champions League final not freely available on terrestrial UK television since the competition’s rebranding, sparking debate among supporters. TNT Sports provides access via various TV packages and its app.
Across Europe, free-to-air options exist in select countries. Ireland viewers can stream on RTÉ Player. Germany’s ZDF, Belgium’s RTL Play and Turkey’s TRT1 or tabii also offer free access in their respective markets.
Global streaming and international rights
Broadcasters vary by region. In many territories, DAZN holds streaming rights. Australian fans access the match via Stan Sport. South American and Asian markets feature local partners including beIN Sports and others.
UEFA’s official platforms and apps may provide highlights and condensed coverage, though full live matches require licensed broadcasters. VPN services are sometimes used to access geo-restricted free streams, though users should verify legality in their location.
Technical requirements and tips for viewers
Stable high-speed internet (minimum 5-10 Mbps recommended) ensures smooth HD or 4K streaming. Viewers should update apps and clear cache before kickoff. Paramount+ and TNT Sports apps support multi-device viewing, including tablets and smartphones.
Alternate broadcasts, such as a celebrity-hosted show featuring David Beckham on Paramount+, offer lighter viewing options alongside the main feed.
For those unable to watch live, most services provide full-match replays shortly after the final whistle. Social media platforms like X and YouTube will carry official highlights and fan reactions.
Match significance and historical context
The final represents a clash of styles and ambitions. Arsenal seeks to end a long wait for European glory, while PSG aims to cement its status as a continental powerhouse under Qatari ownership. A PSG victory would make it only the second side in the modern era to defend the title successfully in consecutive seasons.
Ticket allocation has drawn attention, with each club receiving around 17,200 seats. Thousands of fans have traveled to Budapest, filling the city with supporters in red and blue.
Security and logistics remain priorities for Hungarian authorities and UEFA. The earlier kickoff time, moved from traditional evening slots, aims to improve fan experience and travel arrangements.
Preview and potential storylines
Key battles include Arsenal’s midfield control against PSG’s attacking transitions. Set-piece execution and goalkeeper performance could prove decisive in what many predict as a tight, tactical encounter.
Injuries and squad depth will factor heavily. Arsenal welcomes back key defenders, while PSG manages absences in defense. Managers Arteta and Enrique have emphasized preparation and mental resilience in final press conferences.
Regardless of the outcome, the match crowns the 2025-26 European season. The winner earns automatic qualification for next season’s competition and a place in the FIFA Club World Cup.
Additional viewing resources
Fans should consult official broadcaster websites for last-minute changes. UEFA.com provides match center updates, statistics and team news. Local listings ensure accurate channel information by country.
Communities on Reddit, X and club-specific forums share streaming experiences and troubleshooting tips. Radio options like BBC Radio 5 Live offer audio commentary for UK listeners.
As anticipation builds in Budapest, global audiences prepare for what promises to be a memorable night of football. Whether through premium subscriptions or regional free streams, millions will tune in to witness history unfold at Puskás Aréna.
Business
RLX Technology: Focus On The Fundamentals (NYSE:RLX)
I am a specialist in Asian equities after having been a sellside analyst for 13 years. In addition, I have also spent time covering US hardware and semiconductor stocks on the sellside. Within Asia, I have covered the casino, automotive, industrial, consumer and technology sectors. I have also worked on the buyside as a fund manager in long only and as an analyst in hedge funds all covering Asian equities where I have developed a keen understanding of Asian companies and economies with a focus on China. From a global equities perspective, I enjoy covering companies globally by examining key metrics such as financial statements strength, valuation upside, and conducting proper analysis of the competitive advantages of the company. Throughout my career, I have found and written on undiscovered small cap companies which have increased in equity value by multiple times. I would like to write for Seeking Alpha where my goal is to help investors cut through the noise and to focus on fundamentals and the company’s competitive outlook instead of the momentum trade.
Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Seeking Alpha’s Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
-
Business6 days agoNYT Strands Answers May 24 2026 Revealed for Puzzle No. 812 Theme Summer Essentials
-
NewsBeat3 days agoIsrael says it has killed new Hamas military leader in Gaza City airstrikes
-
Politics5 days agoBridgerton Season 5: Cast, Release Date And Everything We Know So Far
-
Business4 days agoSelena Gomez Reportedly Upset Over Benny Blanco’s Comments on Her ‘Terrible’ Diet
-
Crypto World4 days agoMicron Crosses $1 Trillion Market Cap as AI Demand Reshapes Memory Sector
-
Business5 days agoBTS Sells Out Four Las Vegas Shows at Allegiant Stadium for ARIRANG World Tour
-
Tech5 days agoMicrosoft’s quiet Claude Code retreat and the real cost of enterprise AI
-
Tech5 days agoChina assigns ID codes to 28,000+ humanoid robots
-
News Videos4 days agoXRP *JUST* SUCCEEDED!!!! CLARITY ACT EXPOSED!!! (SHE EXPOSED IT)
-
Tech2 days agoWaymo dominates autonomous vehicle registrations as Tesla trails behind
-
Tech3 days agoThe Samsung pay deal is the moment Korean unions changed register
-
Tech5 days agoWestone Audio and Etymotic Acquired by Fidelity Collective in Major IEM Market Move
-
Crypto World3 days agoSpaceX’s $2 Trillion IPO: Why Tech Giants Nvidia (NVDA), Apple (AAPL), and Microsoft (MSFT) May Face Pressure
-
Crypto World6 days agoBrian Armstrong Outlines Crypto Vision for the Future Financial System
-
Entertainment5 days ago‘Breaking Bad’ Star’s Easy-to-Binge 6-Part Crime Series Spin-Off Is Finally Heading to Free Streaming
-
Tech4 days agoMillions of AI agents imperiled by critical vulnerability in open source package
-
Crypto World5 days ago
Nvidia (NVDA) CEO Calls on Super Micro to Strengthen Export Controls Amid Smuggling Probe
-
Tech3 days agoNASA taps Blue Origin to deliver lunar rovers for Moon Base initiative
-
NewsBeat5 days agoHottest May day ever as London hits 34.8C in 2C leap from previous records
-
Crypto World1 day ago
Snowflake (SNOW) Stock Rallies on Strong Q1 Results and AI Product Growth

You must be logged in to post a comment Login