This NBA season is delivering one of the most hotly contested MVP races in recent memory, with both Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander putting together historically dominant campaigns. The debate has sparked strong reactions from around the league — including from Boston Celtics legends Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett, who recently proposed a radical change to how the MVP award is handed out.
On the latest episode of KG Certified, the 2008 Celtics NBA champions dove into the merits of both MVP frontrunners. Garnett emphasized the absurd consistency of Jokic’s numbers, warning that not rewarding the Nuggets star would mean “throwing away one of the greatest regular seasons we’ve ever seen.”
The discussion reached a surprising pivot when Pierce asked, “Has there ever been a co-MVP?” After learning that such a scenario has never occurred in NBA history, Garnett didn’t hesitate. “If there ever was a time for one — it’s now,” he declared.
The numbers behind the narrative
Jokic continues to lead the league in several advanced metrics and traditional stats. He’s averaging 29.7 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game — essentially a triple-double over the course of the season. His efficiency, vision, and unselfish play have kept Denver in strong playoff position despite the increasing pressure in the West.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder attempts to drive past Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets during the first half at Paycom Center on March 9, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has emerged as the engine behind Oklahoma City’s resurgence. He currently leads the NBA in scoring with 32.8 points per game, while adding 5.0 rebounds and 6.4 assists on highly efficient 52/38/90 shooting splits. He’s also been disruptive defensively, averaging 1.7 steals and 1.0 blocks per game — a rare combo for a guard.
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Eyes on the playoffs
Despite their stellar regular-season production, both stars — particularly Gilgeous-Alexander — will need to prove their impact when it matters most. With the Western Conference tightly packed and teams like the Lakers, Warriors, Clippers, Timberwolves, and Grizzlies lurking, the margin for error is slim.
As the MVP race tightens, the NBA faces a compelling dilemma: Should one of these generational talents walk away with the award? Or is it time to consider a precedent-breaking co-MVP honor?
