Triple-doubles refer to a game in which three out of the five basic statistics reach double digits. Generally, it is easier for points, rebounds, and assists to reach double figures, and most players' triple-doubles are of this type. In NBA history, the player with the most triple-doubles is Westbrook, who has an impressive 201, far ahead of other current players. Even a versatile player like James falls short by 81 compared to Westbrook. However, there are two current players who still have a chance to break this record. Let's take a look at who they are!
The Value of Westbrook's 201 Triple-Doubles
The 16-17 season was when fans redefined the concept of a triple-double. That year, Westbrook achieved the second-ever average triple-double in NBA history. The first was by the early NBA great, Oscar Robertson (known as "the Big O"). Before this, people didn't have much of a concept about averaging a triple-double. After that, triple-doubles were rare, something many players could only occasionally achieve, making them very precious. This is why we saw the bizarre incident where James' former teammate, Ricky Davis, attempted to grab his own missed shot to pad his rebound stats in pursuit of a triple-double. After all, triple-doubles are hard to come by, and missing one might mean not getting another chance for a while.
In that season, after Durant left, Westbrook took on the offensive burden for the Thunder and transformed into a ball-dominant core player. He averaged 31.6 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 10.4 assists per game, achieving 42 triple-doubles in a single season. There were numerous instances of 50+ point triple-doubles and super triple-doubles. Those who watched Westbrook's games that season know how awe-inspiring he was. Including that season, Westbrook has achieved an average triple-double four times, a record that even the Big O couldn't match, and Westbrook made history. Throughout his career, James has been known for his versatility, averaging 27+7+7. He has a total of 120 triple-doubles, ranking fifth. This number is 81 less than Westbrook's. Last season, James only managed 5 triple-doubles. Given this pace and considering James is now 40 years old, it's unrealistic for him to surpass this record.
Jokic with 142 Triple-Doubles
As Westbrook's current teammate, Jokic has a total of 142 triple-doubles, the second-most among active players. He is not far behind Westbrook, trailing by 59. Jokic is only 30 years old and is currently in the prime of his career. Last season, Jokic achieved 25 triple-doubles. This season, he is averaging a near-triple-double with 31 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 9.5 assists per game. He has already accumulated 12 triple-doubles in less than half the season. At this rate, Jokic could surpass Westbrook's 201 triple-doubles in just three more seasons. Considering Westbrook's current team status, his opportunities to achieve triple-doubles each season will be limited, probably no more than three. Therefore, Jokic has a good chance of surpassing Westbrook within three seasons.
Doncic with 80 Triple-Doubles
Despite having only 80 triple-doubles and ranking seventh in NBA history, Doncic is only 25 years old and in his seventh NBA season. He has already achieved triple-doubles at a fast pace. As one of the few ball-dominant core players in the current NBA, Doncic has shown remarkable maturity in his court vision at a young age. Last season, he led the Mavericks all the way to the Finals and achieved 21 triple-doubles in the regular season.
However, since entering this season, Doncic's triple-double pace has slowed down, achieving only 3 so far. Compared to Jokic, he is somewhat inconsistent. Additionally, Doncic is currently experiencing the biggest injury of his career, raising questions about his performance for the rest of the season. However, Doncic's biggest advantage is his youth; he is ten years younger than Westbrook and five years younger than Jokic. This is his greatest advantage, and he is also the youngest player in the top ten of the NBA's triple-double list. To reach 201 triple-doubles, he must average at least 10 triple-doubles per season over the next twelve seasons. This should not be too difficult for Doncic, considering that stars generally maintain their form until around 37 years old. Therefore, Doncic should have no problem breaking this number.
Currently, it seems that Jokic has the best chance of breaking this record. With his MVP-level playstyle, he is unlikely to experience a significant decline in the short term. There are very few centers like him who can pass and possess outstanding court vision. His ability to cover for his teammates is arguably the strongest in the current NBA. Jokic has won three MVPs in recent seasons, truly living up to his status as a historic-level center.