With a solid 39-22 record and a No. 3 seeding in the Western Conference standings, the Denver Nuggets have been a formidable force this season.

Their main star, Nikola Jokic, is averaging an astounding 28.9 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.4 assists per game, making him one of the most dominant players in the league.

Yet the debate over who holds the title of the NBA’s best player is a perennial topic among fans and analysts, and Kendrick Perkins has reignited the conversation with a bold claim.

During a recent appearance on ESPN’s “First Take,” the former NBA champion weighed in on the ongoing discussion, offering his perspective on the league’s elite talent.

Perkins, known for his candid and often controversial takes, questioned the widespread consensus that Nuggets star is the best player in the league.

The Los Angeles Lakers’ ascent has provided LeBron James with renewed momentum this season.

Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic and Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James.

Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images

Perkins has a strong take on the NBA’s best player

The ex-Celtics big man is challenging the notion that the reigning MVP is the undisputed top player.

“Are we sure that Nikola Jokic is the best player in the league?” Perkins asked.

Instead, he made a compelling case for the Lakers forward, who continues to defy age and expectations in his 22nd NBA season.

“I would have to say right now today that LeBron James is the best player in the NBA,” Perkins declared. “LeBron James is getting it done at the age of 40 on both ends of the floor.”

Perkins highlighted James’ remarkable consistency and impact, noting that the Lakers’ recent success has been fueled by his leadership and all-around contributions.

James is averaging 24.9 points, 8 rebounds, and 8.7 assists per game this season, showcasing his ability to dominate in multiple facets of the game.

While Jokic remains a statistical marvel, averaging a near triple-double and leading the Nuggets to a strong position in the Western Conference, Perkins’ endorsement of James underscores the enduring greatness of the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.

As the Lakers, bolstered by the addition of Luka Doncic, continue their push for the top seed, James’ performance has reignited the debate over his place among the league’s best.

Perkins’ verdict adds another layer to the ongoing discussion, reminding fans that the title of “best player” is as much about impact and legacy as it is about numbers.