The Race: Breaking down the NBA's top three MVP Candidates

Published on 15 March 2024 at 11:27

      In such an action-packed age, the NBA has seen numerous stars have big nights, whether that be through scoring, playmaking, or defending. However, there are three players who stay consistent and at the top of everyone's list, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Luka Doncic, and Nikola Jokic. Today, I will break down where each of their strengths and weaknesses lie, and their overall chances at winning the most sought-after award.

Odds Via FOXSports.com

 

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: +370 odds to win MVP

      Being the best player on the best team in the Western Conference is no easy task, yet Shai continues to prove why the Thunder are so good. Averaging 31.1 points per game this year, coupled with his playmaking ability makes Shai probably the most explosive and entertaining player around the league, and it isn't very close. He has an extremely strong ability to finish at the basket, often embarrassing people every game. Yet, it isn't just his scoring ability. He currently averages around 5 rebounds and 6 assists per game, demonstrating what he can do around the court. If he keeps this up, who is to say he won't win the MVP.

 

Luka Doncic: +850 odds to win MVP

      Currently having one of the best season's this league has seen, there is no reason Luka Doncic should be out of the MVP race and conversation. Luka currently averages 34 points, 9 assists and 9 rebounds, being the leading charge for the Dallas Mavericks as they make a late season push. At this point in the season, he is doing something not many in NBA history have really ever done. averaging 34-9-9, however his MVP chances are dim. Why? Well, because of his position. In the past 4 years, the MVP has been a big man every single time, pointing to some sort of trend. 

 

Nikola Jokic: -270 odds to win MVP

      As the Nuggets keep up a strong schedule and rise in the Western Conference, Nikola Jokic stays on the top of the MVP race, and for good reason. At this point in the season Jokic is averaging a wild 26 points and 12 rebounds, followed by 9 assists per game as well, which is wild when you watch him play. Although he isn't the fastest, the strongest, or the most explosive, his game knowledge and court vision put him in a category by himself. If he keeps this up and the Nuggets continue to thrive, a third MVP award for Jokic is definitely in his future.

 

   Tyler Rath, Senior Writer and Editor


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