Nikola Jokić modestly reacts to the “effortless” style of play.

Nikola Jokicthe Denver Nuggets center superstar, continues to rewrite the record books maintaining his trademark humility. After leading his team to a dominating victory over the New Orleans Pelicans, Jokic responded to a reporter’s question by suggesting that his historic plays seem to come so easily to him.

When asked about starting the season with four consecutive triple-doubles, nothing short of a feat Oscar Robertson and Russell Westbrook have achieved, and as these statistical displays look so effortless, a triple MVP he didn’t hesitate to push back on that characterization.

“It’s not easy. I think we should stop talking about it,” said Jokic. “I still run like the other guys, I still jump like the other guys. Sometimes the game goes my way, and I have a good night like today. I think it was a good night for me, so hopefully it will be like that in the future.”

Despite how easy he makes basketball look, Nikola Jokic isn’t a fan of people describing his style of play as “effortless.”

“I still run like other guys, I still jump like other guys. Sometimes the game goes my way and good night.” pic.twitter.com/SgFilsgpp6

— Rachel Strand (@MileHighRachel) October 30, 2025

Jokic’s latest triple-double came in the game The Nuggets’ 122-88 victory over the Pelicansimproving Denver to a 3-1 record. In 28 minutes of action, he scored 21 points on 10-of-15 shooting, 12 rebounds and 10 assists. He would also record two steals.

This fourth straight triple-double to start the 2025-26 season puts Jokic alongside Robertson, who accomplished the same feat in 1961-62. During that season, Robertson became the first player to average a triple-double for an entire season. In that nearly 65-year span, Westbrook and Jokic would be the only other players to do the same.

Jokic’s performance against the Pelicans marks his 168th career triple-double. This puts it third all time behind Westbrook (203) and Robertson (181). If Jokic continues his triple-double pace, he could certainly pass Robertson and slide into second place all-time this season.

While Jokic may not like the word “effortless,” fans and analysts use the term as a compliment rather than a criticism. Rather, it comes from a sense of awe as you witness a generational talent working hard to make his basketball brilliance look effortless.