The Denver Nuggets have been on fire in the 2023 NBA Playoffs. This is thanks to the stellar play of their two superstars, Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. The two have been carrying the team in the Finals, propelling them to a 3-1 lead over the Miami Heat. And, with how they’ve been playing, fans are drawing comparisons on Reddit between them and one of the greatest duos of all time, Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant.
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Kobe and Shaq were an exceptional pairing that dominated the NBA together for eight seasons, winning three championships. Big Diesel’s strength, immense physical presence, and The Black Mamba’s quickness and shot creation made for a lethal combo. A combo that no one has been able to replicate to this day.
Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray are reminding everyone of Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant
Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic have been balling in the NBA Finals. The two Nuggets stars have been integral in the team’s run to the Finals and are proving to be even more critical in their fight against the Heat. They have singlehandedly been why the Nuggets are storming ahead toward the championship.
Murray is currently averaging 23 points, six rebounds, and 10 assists per game. While Jokic is on 31 points, 13 rebounds, and eight assists per game. Well, with the way they’ve been performing, fans are in awe. They have even started comparing the duo to two of the NBA’s all-time greats.
Given the dynamic between Murray and Joker, many fans are reminded of Shaq and Kobe. And, with how dominant they’ve been against the Miami Heat, it isn’t that surprising. Fans have even started sharing their reactions to the comparison on Reddit. What’s more, there are those who agree that there is a likeness.
However, while there is a degree of similarity between the two duos, some believe these comparisons are a bit out of hand. Going so far as to claim that they are the discount versions of the Hall of Famers.
It certainly is a mixed bag of comparisons. But, while fans around the world can contemplate, it will take a lot before Murry and Jokic can stand on equal terms with Kobe and Shaq.
Jokic and Murray have a long way to go before they reach the same level of Shaq and Kobe
Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murry are definitely very talented players. And, if history does repeat itself, they should be NBA Champions very soon. However, any comparisons between them and Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant are quite farfetched. They still have a lot to accomplish before they can even be mentioned in the same sentence.
After all, Shaq and Kobe are one of the most successful duos in NBA history. Having won three NBA Championships together, they were a legendary pair. An integral part of the Lakers three-peat between 2000 and 2002.
As things stand, Murry and Jokic are still three championships away from equalling Shaq and Kobe. But, if they continue to improve their game and work together, while it may seem farfetched now, they could insert themselves into the conversation a few years down the line.
