The MVP Race Hits the Court
Nikola Jokic never chases awards. But this season — quietly — he admitted he might be playing the best basketball of his life.
“If that’s enough, it’s enough. If not, [Shai] deserves it. He’s really amazing,” Jokic said in March.
The statement came after a win over the Oklahoma City Thunder, where his MVP rival Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had also shined. That game was just a preview. Now, the MVP race spills directly onto the floor as the Thunder and Nuggets meet in the Western Conference semifinals.
Jokic’s Historic Season
The numbers speak louder than Jokic ever will:
- 33 triple-doubles (league leader)
- 29.6 PPG, 12.7 RPG, 10.2 APG, 1.8 SPG
- 41.7% from three — top 20 in the league
No player in NBA history had ever hit those marks in a single season. His dominance was complete — but quiet, as always.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s Case
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the NBA in scoring (32.7 PPG) while anchoring the youngest No. 1 seed in league history. The Thunder finished with 68 wins and a historic +12.9 point differential.
He was elite on both ends, a two-way engine of one of the best regular-season teams ever. It’s the classic MVP debate: best stats vs. best team.
A Battle of Contrasts
The Thunder and Nuggets split their March back-to-back meetings. Shai had 40 in a Thunder win; Jokic followed with 35 and 18 in a Denver response.
“I love MVPs… but none of it matters if you don’t win,” Shai said.
Jokic, true to form, didn’t comment. Others did.
“Nikola had maybe the greatest season ever,” said Nuggets guard Christian Braun.
“Lu Dort for DPOY and Shai for MVP or we riot,” tweeted Thunder rookie Chet Holmgren.
MVP to Be Decided Mid-Series
The NBA will announce the MVP during the semifinals — with Jokic, Gilgeous-Alexander, and Giannis Antetokounmpo expected to appear. But history looms: no MVP since Steph Curry in 2015 has won a title.
So while the trophy glimmers, both stars are chasing something greater: legacy, and a shot at a ring.
Mutual Respect, Singular Focus
Jokic on SGA:
“He’s different. His pace, his rhythm, his skill level — it all looks effortless.”
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault on both:
“They’re not distracted. The MVP conversation? It’s not even part of it.”
Still, fans and media won’t look away. Jokic vs. SGA is the narrative — and the next chapter unfolds live, in the playoffs. Only one will move on. Only one may win MVP. But both know what really matters.
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