One of the biggest stars in the NBA today is Nikola Jokic. The Denver Nuggets‘ leader and three-time MVP is once again in the running for the prestigious award this season, solidifying his place among the league’s all-time greats. However, despite being a strong candidate, Jokić acknowledges that he faces serious competition for the honor.
Since the 2018-19 season, Jokic has consistently been in the MVP conversation. He finished as the runner-up in 2022-23 and placed in the top five in 2018-19, further proving his dominance in the league. With another impressive campaign underway, his chances of securing a fourth MVP remain high.
This season, several players have emerged as standout performers. Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks) and Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers) have been among the league’s best. However, one player generating significant MVP buzz is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
The Oklahoma City Thunder star has positioned himself as Jokic’s primary challenger for the award. When asked about the MVP race and the possibility of Gilgeous-Alexander winning his first, Jokić was candid. “This is my third or fourth year in a row, so… I’m really… I can’t control it,” Jokic told reporters after Denver’s win over the Thunder.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder celebrates after scoring.
Jokic on the MVP race with Gilgeous-Alexander
Nikola Jokic is aiming to secure his second consecutive MVP award, but Oklahoma City Thunder’s star is making a strong case for his first. With the MVP race heating up, the gap between the two contenders has narrowed significantly, as Gilgeous-Alexander is delivering one of the best seasons of his career.
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When asked about the competition, Jokic shared his perspective on both his own performance and Gilgeous-Alexander’s chances. “I will say I think I’m playing the best basketball of my life, so if that’s enough, it’s enough. If not, the guy deserves it. He’s really amazing,” Jokic said.
Last season, Jokic narrowly edged out Gilgeous-Alexander in the MVP race, with the Thunder star finishing as runner-up. Now, with Oklahoma City sitting atop the Western Conference standings, the Canadian guard has a legitimate chance to claim the prestigious honor over Jokic this time around.
Comparing Jokic and Gilgeous-Alexander’s stats
Both Jokic and Gilgeous-Alexander have put together remarkable campaigns this season. One key factor in Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP push has been his scoring prowess, averaging 32.7 points per game across 63 appearances, leading his team to a playoff berth.
Meanwhile, Jokic has excelled in other statistical categories. The Nuggets’ star boasts a superior field goal percentage (57% compared to Gilgeous-Alexander’s 52%) and is more efficient from beyond the arc, shooting 43% from three-point range compared to Gilgeous-Alexander’s 38%. Additionally, Jokic holds a clear edge in playmaking, averaging 10.5 assists per game versus Gilgeous-Alexander’s 6.2.
