Full Breakdown
NBA MVP Race: Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Jokic
12/20/2025, 9:11:06 PM
Current Standings in the MVP Race
As of mid-December 2025, the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) race is shaping up to be a competitive showdown primarily between Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic. In the latest ESPN straw poll, Gilgeous-Alexander leads with 57 first-place votes and a total of 865 points, while Jokic follows closely with 42 first-place votes and 822 points. Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers, Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons, and Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks round out the top five.
Performance Highlights
Gilgeous-Alexander is averaging 32.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game, showcasing his scoring prowess and efficiency. His performance has been pivotal in leading the Thunder to a remarkable 25-2 record, which includes the best net rating in NBA history at plus-16.6. Jokic, the reigning MVP, is also having an impressive season with averages of 29.6 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 10.9 assists, maintaining his status as a triple-double threat.
Luka Doncic, while leading the league in scoring at 35.2 points per game, has faced challenges with team defense, as the Lakers rank 20th in that category. Despite this, Doncic's individual performance remains strong, and he has expressed a desire to improve further.
Key Factors Influencing the MVP Race
The MVP race is not solely about individual statistics; team success plays a crucial role. Gilgeous-Alexander's Thunder are positioned as serious contenders, while Jokic's Nuggets are also performing well with a 20-6 record. The performance of supporting players is another factor; for instance, Jamal Murray's strong start has bolstered Jokic's case, while Brunson's leadership has been vital for the Knicks, who recently won the NBA Cup.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics argue that the MVP award should reflect not only individual excellence but also the ability to elevate a team's performance. This perspective places additional pressure on candidates like Doncic, whose Lakers, despite a strong record, have struggled defensively. The debate continues on whether a player's individual brilliance can outweigh their team's shortcomings.
Official Statements & Responses
Jalen Brunson's coach, Mike Brown, emphasized the importance of Brunson's contributions, stating, "When you guys start talking about MVP candidates, [I hope] his name is one of the first that comes out of your mouth." This highlights the growing recognition of Brunson's impact on the Knicks' success.
What's Next
As the season progresses, the performances of Gilgeous-Alexander and Jokic will be closely monitored, particularly as they lead their teams through the remainder of the regular season. The upcoming matchups, especially those against other playoff contenders, will be critical in shaping the narrative of the MVP race.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If we get better than what we are now, that should take care of itself,” — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder
- “When you guys start talking about MVP candidates, [I hope] his name is one of the first that comes out of your mouth,” — Mike Brown, New York Knicks Coach
- “I don’t know if it’s the best basketball I am playing just because of my points.” — Luka Doncic, Los Angeles Lakers
In summary, the 2025-26 NBA MVP race is intensifying, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic leading the charge, while other contenders like Luka Doncic, Cade Cunningham, and Jalen Brunson are making their cases as well. The interplay between individual performance and team success will ultimately determine who claims the prestigious award.
