Jaylen Brown scores 42 points in a win over the New York Knicks.
The competition for the Kia MVP is divided into two categories, reflecting societal distinctions: the elite and the everyday player.
Nikola Jokić, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Luka Dončić are the frontrunners in this closely contested race. Unless there’s a major shift before April, one of these three will likely win the Kia MVP.
The intriguing question remains: who will fill the remaining slots in the MVP top five? This discussion has evolved throughout the season, particularly with injuries affecting several strong candidates.
How do we assess Giannis Antetokounmpo and Victor Wembanyama on this week’s Ladder?
There’s a common adage in basketball: the best ability is availability. Outstanding skills are irrelevant if players are sidelined. The reality is, in a league where 64 games played results in no major awards, health is crucial.
As players drop on the Ladder due to injuries, others who are healthy are capitalizing on those opportunities. This week, Cade Cunningham and Jaylen Brown, two notable talents from the Eastern Conference, have made significant strides.
With the season still unfolding, new contenders may emerge, or Antetokounmpo and Wembanyama could reclaim their positions once they recover. The top tier shows a clear divide, particularly between the third-place player and those below.
1. Nikola Jokić, Denver Nuggets
Last week’s ranking: No. 1 ↔️
Season stats: 29.5 points, 12.3 rebounds, 10.9 assists
His case: Jokić ranks among the top players in scoring and leads in both rebounds and assists, averaging a triple-double with impressive shooting accuracy. He has showcased his value during crucial games, including a recent 40-point effort in a nail-biting win.
2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder
Last week’s ranking: No. 2 ↔️
Season stats: 32.8 points, 4.7 rebounds, 6.4 assists
His case: Gilgeous-Alexander continues to deliver strong performances, leading the Thunder with ease. With ambitions to capture the Emirates NBA Cup, his consistent scoring makes him a formidable MVP candidate.
3. Luka Dončić, Los Angeles Lakers
Last week’s ranking: No. 3 ↔️
Season stats: 35 points, 9.2 rebounds, 9.1 assists
His case: The leading scorer in the league, Dončić’s consistent high-level performances are essential for the Lakers. However, concerns about his shooting accuracy and ball handling have been noted.
4. Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons
Last week’s ranking: No. 4 ↔️
Season stats: 27.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, 9.3 assists
His case: Cunningham has maintained an outstanding level of play, contributing significantly to the Pistons’ success. His remarkable assists per game highlight his capability to elevate his team.
5. Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics
Last week’s ranking: No. 10 ⬆️
Season stats: 29.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, 4.8 assists
His case: Brown has made a substantial leap in the MVP rankings, demonstrating career-high scoring and exceptional performances. His recent games showcase his impact on the Celtics’ success.
The next 5:
6. Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks ⬆️
7. Austin Reaves, Los Angeles Lakers ⬆️
8. Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers ⬇️
9. Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves ⬆️
10. Alperen Sengun, Houston Rockets ⬇️
And five more (listed alphabetically): Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks; Jalen Johnson, Atlanta Hawks; Jamal Murray, Denver Nuggets; Karl-Anthony Towns, New York Knicks; Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs
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Shaun Powell has been covering the NBA since 1985. You can e-mail him at [email protected], find his archive here and follow him on X.
