Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Jokić, the last two players to win back-to-back Kia MVPs, headline a must-watch showdown tonight as the Milwaukee Bucks host the Denver Nuggets ( 8 p.m. ET, TNT ). While both stand 6-foot-11 and continue to put up historic numbers, they dominate the game differently.

Nikola Jokić had a night to forget as the Denver Nuggets’ nine-game winning streak came to an end after a disappointing 123-100 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers. He was caught off guard by the plan JJ Redick and the Lakers executed but believes Denver might have a bigger issue to solve.

Jamal Murray had 20 points (9-20 FG) for the Nuggets while leading the team with five assists. Michael Porter Jr. posted a double-double with 12 points (5-22 FG, 2-11 3PM) and 10 rebounds but struggled with his efficiency.

The just-turned 30-year-old technically sits fourth in the NBA in 3-point accuracy (44.9 percent), three slots behind Memphis Grizzlies marksman Luke Kennard (47.6 percent). But remember, Jokić’s full-court shots occur often — and they arrive with a certificate of authenticity.

Even though we commonly refer to the post-All-Star portion of the NBA season as the "second half," we're well past the halfway point of the 2024-25 campaign. Most teams have fewer than 30 games left.

Nikola Jokić has long been considered one of the most unique players in NBA history and this season has been solidifying his status as a game-changer.

Who are the top candidates for Defensive Player of the Year, Coach of the Year and other trophies as we hit the stretch run?

People are just allowed to get on [TV] and say whatever they want about our game … it’s like the cool thing to say the NBA has a problem.”  Tyrese