NBA MVP Race 2025-26: Candidates, Stats, and Predictions
The NBA MVP race is one of the tightest in years. Three players have legitimate cases, and the winner might not be decided until the final week of the regular season. Here is where every candidate stands.
1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (OKC Thunder)
Stats: 31.2 PPG, 6.4 APG, 5.8 RPG, 2.1 SPG, 63.4% TS
SGA is the frontrunner, and it's not particularly close. He's leading the best team in the West while putting up historic numbers. His midrange game is the best in the league — he shoots 52% from midrange, which is absurd. His defense has taken another leap this season, and he's become one of the best two-way guards in NBA history.
The case for SGA: best player on the best team, elite efficiency, elite defense, and he's done it all season without a significant slump. He's the most complete player in basketball right now.
2. Nikola Jokic (Denver Nuggets)
Stats: 26.8 PPG, 12.4 RPG, 10.1 APG, 1.3 SPG, 65.1% TS
Jokic is averaging a triple-double for the third time in his career. His passing is otherworldly — he sees angles that no other player in the league can see. His efficiency is the best among all MVP candidates, and his impact on the Nuggets is immeasurable. When Jokic sits, Denver's offense falls off a cliff.
The case against Jokic: voter fatigue. He's already won three MVPs, and voters might want to give the award to someone new. But if you're voting purely on performance, Jokic has a strong case.
3. Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics)
Stats: 28.5 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.1 SPG, 61.8% TS
Tatum has been the best player on the best team in the East. His scoring has been more efficient than ever, and his playmaking has improved significantly. The Celtics have the best record in the East, and Tatum is the engine that drives everything.
The case for Tatum: he's never won an MVP, the Celtics are dominant, and his numbers are career-bests across the board. The narrative is strong.
4. Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers)
Stats: 27.3 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 6.1 APG, 1.5 SPG, 60.2% TS
Mitchell has transformed the Cavaliers into a legitimate contender. His clutch scoring has been the best in the league — he's shooting 48% on game-winning shots in the final 2 minutes. The Cavs are the 2nd seed in the East, and Mitchell is the reason why.
Prediction
SGA wins it. His combination of scoring, defense, and team success is too strong. Jokic finishes 2nd, Tatum 3rd. But if OKC slips in the final weeks and Denver surges, Jokic could steal it. This race isn't over yet.