Nikola Jokic is likely on the verge of winning his third straight MVP award, and ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins has a reason why: racism.
On “First Take” Wednesday, the controversial NBA analyst suggested MVP voters foster bias toward black players by pointing out that only Dirk Nowitzki, Steve Nash and Jokic have won the award since 1990 without finishing in the top 10 in scoring.
“What do those guys have in common? I’ll let it sit there and marinate. You think about it,” Perkins said. “When it comes down to moving the goalposts for certain individuals to win it, again, is it Oochie Wally? Or is it One Mic? What song are we actually dancing to right now, why is this subject not brought up?”
It wasn’t the first time Perkins shaded Jokic recently. On “First Take” last week, the 2008 NBA champion accused Jokic of “stat-padding” to help himself average a triple-double.
Jokic is looking to become the fourth player ever to win the MVP award in three straight seasons, joining NBA legends Wilt Chamberlain, Larry Bird and Bill Russell.
Kendrick Perkins shared his opinions on the NBA MVP race. Getty Images
Nikola Jokic is currently the frontrunner to win MVP. Getty ImagesThe Serbia native is averaging 24.6 points, 11.7 rebounds and 10 assists per game, leading Denver to the best record in the Western Conference (44-19) so far this season.
