The debate for the 2025 MVP award keeps gaining momentum. Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander stay at the center of it. As their performances grow stronger, more people join the conversation. Some focus on stats, while others value leadership or impact. Still, most agree that both deserve the award. Now, James Harden has stepped in. He shared his MVP pick but also added an important clarification to explain his view.
According to Rachel Nichols on OpenCourt, James Harden believes that Nikola Jokic is the best player in the NBA without a doubt. However, he would give his MVP vote to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The reason is simple, Shai is having an incredible season and continues to lead the Thunder with consistency and impact. Rachel also pointed out an important difference between fans and players. While fans often focus on stats, players look deeper. They value the full scope of a player’s influence on the court, not just the numbers.
Even though Shai Gilgeous-Alexander seems to be the leading MVP candidate, Nikola Jokic still deserves strong consideration. Unlike Shai, who excels mainly as a scorer, Nuggets star influences the game in more ways. He scores at a high level, but also dominates on the boards. Additionally, his playmaking ability sets him apart from any other big man. He plays a central role for the Denver Nuggets and remains essential to their structure on both ends of the floor.
The Oklahoma City Thunder are one of the best teams in the NBA this season. Unlike the Denver Nuggets, they managed to dominate the Western Conference. This allowed them to build momentum and prove their consistency over time. As a result, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s impact became even more noticeable. He has been the difference-maker for the top team in the West. However, some still wonder how he would perform on a team that was not as dominant.
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.
Is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander the most differential player in the NBA right now?
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is not just putting up numbers, he is leading the NBA in scoring average this season. After 76 games, Shai is averaging 32.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game. More importantly, he has been the difference maker for the Oklahoma City Thunder. The team finished the regular season with the best record in the league. Therefore, the most differential player in the league.
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The Thunder have a real shot at the NBA title. They have been the most consistent and balanced team all season. It is not only because of Shai. Young players like Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren have stepped up. They contribute on both ends, helping with ball movement, defense, and scoring. As a group, they form the core of a strong and promising project.
If the Thunder win the championship and if Shai wins MVP, credit will go beyond the players. General Manager Sam Presti and Head Coach Mark Daigneault deserve recognition. They built a deep and cohesive team. Their strategy does not rely entirely on Shai, which makes Oklahoma City even more dangerous in the postseason.
SurveyWhich player do you consider will take home the 2025 NBA MVP award?
Which player do you consider will take home the 2025 NBA MVP award?
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