Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Surpasses Nikola Jokić for Top Spot in MVP Rankings

Currently, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s team sits 12.5 games ahead overall (13.5 over the Nuggets) and, given that team success influences MVP voting—though the extent of this can vary by voter—it benefits Gilgeous-Alexander, who has been pivotal in achieving this significant lead.

Those familiar with basketball know that Gilgeous-Alexander has the upper hand compared to Nikola Jokić, mainly due to the support he receives from his teammates; Jokić continues to play without an All-Star companion or a standout defensive player, despite the Nuggets’ current struggles defensively (ranked 20th with a 114.8 defensive rating).

In Oklahoma City, however, Gilgeous-Alexander has help from All-Star Jalen Williams, while Lu Dort is also likely to receive accolades for All-Defensive team considerations.

Nonetheless, OKC would not be in its current position without Gilgeous-Alexander, who has been essential even without a strong center all season and currently leads the league in scoring by a significant margin.

Recently, Gilgeous-Alexander scored 48 points against the Pistons and followed that performance with 31 points and eight assists (one turnover) against the Bucks, showcasing dominance over notable players from the Kia MVP Ladder.

Consequently, with under a month left in the season, Gilgeous-Alexander has reclaimed the top spot in the MVP race.

Upcoming highlight: Look out this Sunday as Jokić goes head-to-head with young center Alperen Sengun in Houston, who, while not embracing the nickname “Baby Jokić,” shares many traits with the three-time MVP.

Stat of note: Despite the Nuggets’ struggles, Jokić scored over 40 points in both games this season against the Wizards, and the Nuggets have a balanced record when he scores that many.

Coaching insight: “In the last decade, Nikola Jokić has played the second-most games in the NBA. His absences aren’t due to rest; he plays through injuries that would sideline many others,” reflected Nuggets coach Michael Malone on Jokić’s recent game absences.

Overview: The leading scorer in the league, Gilgeous-Alexander boasts 12 games with 40 or more points while maintaining an effortless scoring style, as seen in his recent performance against Detroit.

Overview: Jokić continues to lead in triple-doubles, showing strong potential to finish within the top ranks for scoring, assisting, and rebounding, yet concerns about his health due to recent injuries linger.

Overview: Antetokounmpo is on track to surpass 30 points per game while shooting nearly 60%, positioning him as one of the league’s most efficient high-volume scorers.

Overview: Tatum has shown remarkable performance throughout the season, contributing significantly to the Celtics’ competitiveness, though his recent absences raise questions as the season closes.

Overview: Although Mitchell’s individual stats may not dominate, being at the core of a potentially championship-winning team often boosts his MVP candidacy.

6. Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors
7.Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons
8.LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers
9.Evan Mobley, Cleveland Cavaliers
10. Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks

Other notable mentions: Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves; Jaren Jackson Jr., Memphis Grizzlies; Alperen Sengun, Houston Rockets; Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks; Jalen Williams, Oklahoma City Thunder.