It has been a month since we revived the weekly Awards Watch column, making it an ideal moment to dive back into the MVP discussion. This week, we take an in-depth look at the MVP ballot.
GO DEEPER
The MVP race between SGA and Joker is nearing its climax. Don’t miss it
Most Valuable Player
5 Honorable Mentions: Steph Curry, Golden State Warriors, Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks, Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves, LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers, Alperen Şengün, Houston Rockets
5. Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics (Last week: honorable mention)
4. Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers (Last week: 4)
3. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks (Last week: 5)
In this week’s MVP article by Sam Amick, he pointed out Antetokounmpo’s exceptional performance and how he ranks with Jokić and SGA. While it’s clear that Antetokounmpo doesn’t rank above these two this season, his consistent dominance warrants recognition. With averages of 30 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists while shooting near 60 percent from the field, his level of performance feels almost routine.
2. Jokić (Last week: 2)
1. Gilgeous-Alexander (Last week: 1)
Rather than discussing each player’s merits separately, intertwining their arguments provides a clearer picture. The playoffs will determine the outcome, but both players have shaped the narrative of the 2024-25 regular season as pivotal figures in the MVP race. My previous post outlined how I assess the MVP award criteria; let’s apply that here for both players.
Impressive Statistics
- Jokić: 29.1 points, 12.8 rebounds, 10.3 assists, 1.8 steals, 0.7 blocks, 57.5% FG, 41.3% 3P, 80.7% FT, 65.9% TS
- SGA: 33.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 1.8 steals, 1.0 blocks, 52.6% FG, 37.1% 3P, 90.1% FT, 64.5% TS
These are historic performance metrics. Jokić could join the elite club of players to average a triple-double, previously achieved by only a couple of iconic players, but his efficiency stands out. Meanwhile, SGA has matched Jordan’s remarkable scoring records, making him a unique presence this season.
Impact on the Game
Jokić: Nuggets are plus-9.9 per 100 possessions with him on court, minus-8.6 without. SGA: Thunder are plus-16.6 with him, plus-4.2 when he’s not. These numbers reflect significant differences in team performance and player impacts, highlighting how both players elevate their respective teams considerably.
Team Success
Jokić: Nuggets’ record: 44-26 (approximately 51-52 wins prediction). SGA: Thunder’s record: 57-12 (on pace for roughly 67-68 wins). Team success influences MVP discussions, and with the Thunder vastly outperforming the Nuggets, it will likely weigh heavily in the evaluation process.
Narrative Considerations
The prevailing discourse around Jokić is one of appreciation for his unique skill set, while SGA brings a compelling narrative of being unstoppable on the court. Public perception seems to tilt towards Jokić’s importance to his team, yet SGA’s remarkable season deserves its own recognition, particularly given his contributions on both ends of the floor.
