NBA MVP Race 2025: Gilgeous-Alexander vs Jokić

As the 2025-2026 NBA season nears its conclusion, the Most Valuable Player (MVP) race is intensifying, with two standout candidates leading the charge:

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder):

Performance: Gilgeous-Alexander is averaging 33.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game, shooting 52.6% from the field.
Betting Odds: He is the clear favorite to win the MVP award, with odds at -588, reflecting an 85.47% implied probability. Sportsbook Review
Oklahoma City is currently in 1st place before the start of the NBA Playoffs.

Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets):

Performance: Jokić is delivering exceptional numbers, averaging 29.1 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 10.3 assists per game, with shooting percentages of 57.5% from the field and 41.3% from three-point range. talkSPORT
Betting Odds: Jokić remains a strong contender, with odds at +475, indicating a significant chance to secure his fourth MVP trophy.
Denver is currently in 3rd place before the start of the NBA Playoffs.

Other Notable Contenders:

Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks): Over 59 games, he has averaged 30.2 points, 12.0 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game, with a field goal percentage of 60.0%. ESPN.com His scoring average ranks second in the league, while his rebounding places him sixth. ESPN.com Antetokounmpo’s efficiency is further highlighted by his true shooting percentage of 61.9%. StatMuse

Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics): As of March 26, 2025, Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum has been delivering an outstanding performance during the 2024-2025 NBA season. Over 66 games, he has averaged 27.1 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game, with a field goal percentage of 45.5%. ESPN.com

Past MVP Winners

2024 – Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets

26.4 PPG, 12.4 RPG, 9.0 APG, .9 BLG, .58% FGP

2023 – Joel Embiid, Philadephia 76ers

33.1 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 4.2 APG, 1.7 BLP, .55% FGP

2021, 2022 – Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets

26.4 PPG, 10.8 RPG, 8.3 APG, .7 BPG, .57% FGP
27.1 PPG, 13.8 RPG, 7.9 APG, .9 BPG, .58% FGP

2019, 2020 – Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks

27.7 PPG, 12.5 RPG, 5.9 APG, 1.5 BPG, .58% FGP
29.5 PPG, 13.6 RPG, 5.6 APG, 1.0 BPG, .55% FGP

Conclusion:

The 2025-2026 MVP race highlights the exceptional talent and performances across the league. While Gilgeous-Alexander and Jokić are the frontrunners, the dynamic nature of the NBA means the landscape could shift as the season concludes.

For a more in-depth analysis, you might find this video helpful: