The NBA MVP race is closer than ever with three of the regular season’s best performers vying for the prestigious honor.
Here is our top 3.
3. Luka Dončić, Dallas Mavericks
- Luka Dončić stats: 33.9 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 9.8 APG, 48% FG, 38% 3PT, 28.1 PER
We’re all familiar with Luka Dončić’s nightly brilliance. In a game against Utah, he managed a triple-double in just one half. Then, in another matchup with Atlanta, Dončić exploded for an impressive 73 points. Jokic has demonstrated that MVPs can be won without excelling in defense, which should bode well for Dončić’s chances.
However, he faces stiff competition from versatile talents like Jokic and SGA. While leading the NBA in scoring, Dončić’s turnover rate and lack of elite defense may hinder his MVP bid.
2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander stats: 30.1 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 6.2 APG, 2 SPG, 53% FG, 29.3 PER
A season ago, the Oklahoma City Thunder were a fringe contender thanks to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s development into an All-NBA talent. Now, he’s become one of basketball’s most efficient scoring threats, and the Thunder earned the top seed in the West. But it’s not just on offense.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s a complete player who brings the intensity on defense too, leading the NBA in total steals. With SGA becoming a legit MVP candidate, the Thunder’s decision to trade Paul George continues to look better and better. But imagine if OKC can win a ring.
1. NBA MVP – Nikola Jokić, Denver Nuggets
- Nikola Jokić stats: 26.4 PPG, 12.4 RPG, 9 APG, 58% FG, 35% 3PT, 31 PER
No one puts up numbers like Nikola Jokic does. He may not be the league’s top scorer, but Jokic is an incredibly efficient player who somehow came close to averaging a triple-double last season and did so again in ’24. Of course, Jokic is a top 2024 NBA MVP candidate, ranking among league leaders in total rebounds.
With Denver tying for the NBA’s second-best record, Jokic has earned another MVP award in our eyes.
