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Russell Westbrook, undoubtedly an exceptional player, has been on a remarkable trajectory as the NBA's triple-double leader. However, his reign might face fierce competition from his Denver Nuggets teammate, Nikola Jokić, who has the potential to snatch that title away once he calls time on his illustrious career. Westbrook has established himself as a triple-double virtuoso, consistently stacking up impressive numbers across multiple statistical categories. His unparalleled athleticism and relentless drive have allowed him to surpass legends of the game and claim the throne as the NBA's all-time leader in triple-doubles. theless, Jokić, a prodigious talent in his own right, has been silently making waves in the league with his exceptional skills and versatility. Despite playing a different style of game compared to Westbrook, the Serbian center has showcased an uncanny ability to contribute in various aspects of the game. With his extraordinary passing skills, Jokić has showcased the potential to average a triple-double over the course of a season. His court vision, coupled with his ability to control the game from the post, opens up opportunities for his teammates and ensures his own involvement in scoring, rebounding, and playmaking. Although Westbrook's achievements are undoubtedly extraordinary, it would be remiss not to acknowledge Jokić's skyrocketing trajectory. As he continues to develop and refine his game, there is a strong chance that the Serbian sensation could amass a staggering number of triple-doubles, ultimately surpassing Westbrook's record. Time will tell whether Westbrook's current position as the NBA's all-time leader in triple-doubles will withstand the challenge posed by his talented teammate Jokić. As fans eagerly anticipate the unfolding of this captivating rivalry, one thing remains certain: both players have revolutionized the perception of basketball statistics, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

The three-time NBA MVP posted 27 points, 20 rebounds and 11 assists on Thursday in a loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, giving him the 139th triple-double of his career. That moves ahead of Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson for the third-most ever.

Only Westbrook (200) and Oscar Robertson (181) have more.

Congrats to Nikola Jokić of the @nuggets for moving to 3rd on the all-time TRIPLE-DOUBLES list! pic.twitter.com/2iR8f4GxM6

— NBA (@NBA) December 6, 2024

Few statues are built on the basis of being third-best at something, but Jokić appears to have a very real shot of catching Westbrook (though it's not like he needs to do so for a statue). Westbrook currently has 61 more triple-doubles than Jokić, but Westbrook is 36 years old and Jokić is 29. That gives the big man plenty of runway to stat-sheet stuff his way to history.

Jokić posted 85 triple-doubles in the four full seasons since his first MVP award and already has nine in 17 games this season. That pace of triple doubles in 27.3% of games played works out to Jokić needing to play roughly 223 games to catch Westbrook, or less than three seasons.

So baring a major injury or sudden drop-off in form, Jokić appears to have a pretty good shot.

That ongoing chase is only a small part of a season in which Jokić once again appears to be the frontrunner for MVP. It's not only because of his formidable counting stats either, as his impact on his team is... stark:

There is not a single more valuable player in the NBA than Nikola Jokic: pic.twitter.com/v6aNJEtZem

— Swipa (@SwipaCam) December 6, 2024

Despite Jokić continuing his MVP form, it's been a challenging season for the Nuggets, who are 11-9 after falling to the Cavs. Denver still has its stars, but has also seen some attrition since winning their title in 2023, such as the losses of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Bruce Brown. It hasn't been easy finding replacements.