In a shocking twist, Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic has found himself at the center of a heated debate after a former NBA star referred to him as “too guard-like” in a comparison that has sparked fierce backlash from basketball legends and fans alike.
The controversial comment came from ex-NBA player and current analyst, who argued that Jokic’s playing style — marked by his exceptional passing, perimeter shooting, and playmaking ability — strays too far from traditional center play. The former star suggested that Jokic’s skill set is more reminiscent of a guard than a classic big man, calling into question the role of traditional centers in the modern NBA.
“Jokic is a great player, but he’s starting to look more like a guard out there than a true center,” the ex-player stated during a broadcast. “He’s not the dominant, low-post presence that centers were once known for.”
The comments have sent shockwaves through the basketball community, with many current and former players coming to Jokic’s defense. Legendary figures like Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley quickly took to social media, vehemently disagreeing with the assessment.
“This guy is one of the best centers to ever play the game,” O’Neal tweeted. “Just because he can pass and shoot doesn’t make him ‘guard-like.’ He’s still a monster in the paint and does things no center has ever done before.”
Barkley also chimed in, saying, “It’s ridiculous to discredit Jokic just because his game is unique. There’s no such thing as being ‘too guard-like’ when you’re this dominant. He’s breaking the mold and setting new standards for the position.”
Fans, too, have flooded social media with strong opinions, with many defending Jokic’s groundbreaking approach to the center position. “Jokic is changing the game for centers, and that’s a good thing,” one fan wrote. “The game evolves. Why be stuck in the past?”
Jokic himself has remained focused on his play and hasn’t directly addressed the comments, but his on-court performance continues to speak for itself. The two-time MVP is widely regarded as one of the most versatile players in the league, and his unique skill set has helped transform the Nuggets into serious contenders.
As the debate rages on, it’s clear that Jokic’s style of play is forcing a rethinking of what it means to be a center in today’s NBA. Whether fans and analysts agree on his role, one thing is undeniable: Nikola Jokic is rewriting the history books and redefining the center position.
