The MVP Race Just Got a Whole Lot More Interesting!
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is back on top of the Kia MVP Ladder, and his reign is anything but quiet. After a dominant 34-point performance against the Spurs, he’s not just leading the Oklahoma City Thunder—he’s making a bold statement in the MVP conversation. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is his recent surge enough to overshadow Nikola Jokić’s early-season dominance, especially with Jokić sidelined by injury? Let’s dive in.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s resurgence comes at a pivotal moment. After a brief stumble in December, he’s reignited his team’s momentum, proving that his leadership extends far beyond his stylish off-court persona. His ability to consistently deliver 30-point nights, coupled with his defensive prowess, has OKC sitting comfortably atop the Western Conference. And this is the part most people miss: He’s doing all this while carrying a team that’s faced significant injuries to key players like Jalen Williams and Isaiah Hartenstein. It’s not just about scoring—it’s about impact.
Speaking of impact, Jokić’s absence has opened the door for Gilgeous-Alexander to reclaim the top spot. But Jokić’s fall from No. 1 isn’t just about his injury. It’s also about Gilgeous-Alexander’s relentless pursuit of greatness. Still, Jokić remains a formidable contender, and his return could shake up the race once again. Here’s a thought-provoking question: Should an injury-shortened season disqualify Jokić from MVP consideration, or does his early dominance still warrant the title?
Meanwhile, the race is heating up with other contenders like Luka Dončić, whose scoring prowess places him among Laker legends, and Victor Wembanyama, who’s making waves despite a minutes restriction. Jaylen Brown, too, is having a career year, keeping the Celtics afloat in the East without Jayson Tatum. But here’s the real debate: Can any of these players truly challenge Gilgeous-Alexander’s all-around dominance?
As we head into the Martin Luther King Day slate of games, the stage is set for even more drama. Will Gilgeous-Alexander solidify his lead, or will someone else step up to challenge him? One thing’s for sure: this MVP race is far from over. What do you think? Is Gilgeous-Alexander’s recent surge enough to secure the MVP title, or does Jokić still have a shot? Let us know in the comments!
Kia MVP Ladder Rankings:
1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder (Last Week: No. 2)
- Season Stats: 31.9 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 6.4 APG
- Why He’s Here: Consistency, leadership, and all-around impact make him the current frontrunner.
Nikola Jokić, Denver Nuggets (Last Week: No. 1)
- Season Stats: 29.6 PPG, 12.2 RPG, 11 APG
- Why He’s Here: Despite injury, his early-season dominance keeps him in the conversation.
Luka Dončić, Los Angeles Lakers (Last Week: No. 4)
- Season Stats: 33.4 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 8.8 APG
- Why He’s Here: Scoring at an elite level, he’s in the company of Laker greats.
Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs (Last Week: No. 5)
- Season Stats: 29.6 PPG, 12.2 RPG, 11 APG
- Why He’s Here: Limited minutes haven’t stopped him from making a massive impact.
Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics (Last Week: No. 3)
- Season Stats: 28.2 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 6.1 APG
- Why He’s Here: Carrying the Celtics without Tatum, he’s proving he’s a true No. 1 option.
Next 5:
6. Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons
7. Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves
8. Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers
9. Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks
10. Jamal Murray, Denver Nuggets
Honorable Mentions (Alphabetical):
- Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns
- Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors
- Kevin Durant, Houston Rockets
- Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers
- Karl-Anthony Towns, New York Knicks
Shaun Powell has covered the NBA since 1985. You can e-mail him at spowell@nba.com, find his archive here, and follow him on X.
