Nikola has shot just 33.3 percent from the field and 18.2 percent from three-point range in his last three games played.

Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) following the overtime win against the Oklahoma City Thunder during game three of the second round for

Barkley pointed out how Jokic's statistical excellence makes him very important to the Nuggets. The center averaged a triple-double during the regular season, and while Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is expected to win the league MVP award this year, many still consider Jokic the best player in the world.