Could the MVP Race Be Decided in Three Games?
The outcome of the Kia MVP race may hinge on three crucial matchups between Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokić. Currently ranked first and second in the Kia MVP Ladder, their performances against each other will play a significant role as they face off in the upcoming games.
Upcoming Showdowns
The Denver Nuggets will clash with the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday at 9:30 ET (ESPN) and will meet again twice before the season concludes. When competitors go head-to-head, their performances can weigh heavily in the MVP discussion, especially if one player delivers an outstanding game against the other.
Jokić’s Challenge vs. Gilgeous-Alexander’s Advantage
In this matchup, Jokić faces a more significant challenge as he contends with Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein, both towering 7-foot athletes. While Jokić excels individually, the workload he has to shoulder will be substantial compared to Gilgeous-Alexander, who is an elite scorer facing a Nuggets team currently lacking strong defensive options.
Implications of Absences
Possible absences for players are a crucial factor. If Gilgeous-Alexander misses the Friday game due to an abdominal injury, it could elevate Jokić’s chances of taking the lead in the MVP race. This is particularly relevant since Gilgeous-Alexander recently surpassed Jokić when he was sidelined with an injury.
March’s MVP Stakes
As March approaches, the stakes in the MVP race will escalate. Both players are under pressure to perform consistently, with Jokić needing to remain eligible by limiting further game absences. The final matchup on April 10 could serve as a critical juncture for both contenders.
Noteworthy Matchups This Week
This week also features intriguing matchups, such as Cade Cunningham facing Donovan Mitchell twice in five days, which could impact the MVP Ladder and the Eastern Conference standings.
Current MVP Rankings
1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder – Averaging 31.8 points, 4.4 rebounds, 6.4 assists. His consistent performance has kept OKC competitive despite injuries to key players.
2. Nikola Jokić, Denver Nuggets – Averaging 28.8 points, 12.5 rebounds, 10.4 assists. Jokić leads in rebounds and assists but needs to propel the Nuggets up the standings to solidify his MVP chances.
3. Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons – Average stats include 25.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 9.8 assists. His strong performances lately have positioned him as a formidable contender.
4. Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs – 23.7 points, 11.2 rebounds, 2.8 blocks. He has made a strong post-All-Star break push.
5. Luka Dončić, Los Angeles Lakers – Leading the league in scoring with 32.7 points, he continues to be a major offensive threat.
