The NBA MVP race is getting exciting. Many top players are fighting for the award, and it’s clear the competition is tough.
I’ve seen excellent skills from the top players. This makes the MVP list very interesting for fans and analysts. The MVP award is significant. It honours great players and shapes the playoff story.
Key Takeaways
- The current MVP race is highly competitive.
- Top players are showing off their exceptional skills.
- The MVP award is a big deal in basketball.
- Many things help decide who gets the MVP award.
- The MVP list is something everyone wants to know about.
The Current State of the NBA MVP Race
The NBA MVP race is very close. Many players are in the running, and as the season goes on, more players are showing they could win.
Statistical Leaders and Performance Metrics
Statistical leaders are watched closely. They show how well a player is doing. Points per game, rebounds, assists, and shooting percentages are key.
Players who do well in these areas are top contenders. The NBA MVP odds show this. As the season goes on, some players’ odds change a lot.
How Team Success Impacts MVP Voting
Team success matters a lot in MVP voting. Players on teams that could win championships get more votes, as their play is essential for their team’s success.
Players on teams that are not doing well might find it hard to get MVP votes. This shows how vital team success is. It’s not just about how well a player plays.
We must examine stats and team success to determine who might win this year’s NBA MVP. This will help us better understand the current MVP race.
Breaking Down the Top NBA MVP Contenders
From 2016–17 to 2024–25, the NBA MVP award showcased a diverse group of stars. Russell Westbrook (Point Guard, USA) claimed the honour in 2016–17 with the Oklahoma City Thunder (2nd seed), followed by James Harden (Shooting Guard, USA) leading the Houston Rockets (4th seed) in 2017–18. Giannis Antetokounmpo (Power Forward, Greece) dominated back-to-back seasons (2018–19 and 2019–20) for the Milwaukee Bucks (4th and 5th seeds). Nikola Jokić (Centre, Serbia) then emerged as a force, winning in 2020–21 and 2021–22 with the Denver Nuggets, and securing his third MVP in 2023–24. Joel Embiid (Centre, Cameroon/U.S.) interrupted Jokić’s streak in 2022–23 with the Philadelphia 76ers (7th seed). The 2024–25 season saw Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Point Guard, Canada) elevate the Oklahoma City Thunder (3rd seed) to new heights, capping the decade with his first MVP. The era highlighted international talent, positional versatility, and dynastic consistency.
| Player | Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Assists Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nikola Jokić | 26.4 | 12.4 | 9.0 |
| Giannis Antetokounmpo | 30.4 | 11.5 | 6.5 |
| LeBron James | 25.7 | 7.3 | 8.3 |
| Shai Gilgeous-Alexander | 30.1 | 5.5 | 6.2 |
| Luka Dončić | 33.9 | 9.2 | 9.8 |
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has emerged as one of the NBA’s brightest young stars, combining silky-smooth scoring, elite playmaking, and underrated defensive tenacity. The 6’6″ Canadian point guard, drafted 11th overall in 2018, rose to prominence with the Oklahoma City Thunder, where his patient, crafty offensive game—marked by deceptive footwork, a lethal mid-range jumper, and an ability to finish through contact—has made him a nightmare for defenders. By the 2023-24 season, he averaged 30.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game, earning All-NBA First Team honors and finishing second in MVP voting while leading the Thunder to the Western Conference’s top seed. Born in Toronto and raised in Hamilton, Ontario, Gilgeous-Alexander credits his mother, an Olympic track athlete, for instilling his disciplined work ethic. His calm demeanor, clutch performances, and leadership have revitalized Oklahoma City’s franchise, cementing him as the face of a new era of NBA talent.
Dark Horse Candidates to Watch
There are also dark horse candidates. They could surprise everyone. Players who have improved a lot or are having great seasons could win.
Conclusion: Who Will Win the 2025 NBA MVP?
The NBA season is exciting; everyone wants to know who will win the 2025 MVP. It’s too early to tell, but looking at the top players gives clues.
The race for the MVP is very close. Many great players are trying to win. Shaquille O’Neal, a legend, won once. He shows what it takes to be the best.
When the MVP is announced, it will be a big moment. It will show who worked the hardest this season. We can’t wait to see who will be the MVP in 2025.
FAQ
Who are the top contenders for the 2025 NBA MVP?
Top contenders include stars Nikola Jokić and Giannis Antetokounmpo. LeBron James, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Luka Dončić are also in the running.
How does team success impact NBA MVP voting?
Team success is a significant factor in MVP voting. Voters look at how a player helps their team succeed.
Who won the NBA MVP award three times in a row?
Many players have won it three times in a row. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (6), Michael Jordan (5), Bill Russell (5), LeBron James (4), Wilt Chamberlain (4), Larry Bird (3), Magic Johnson (3), and Moses Malone (3) were the only other players in NBA History to achieve 3+ MVP awards before Nikola Jokic. These are some.
How many MVPs does Shaquille O’Neal have?
Shaquille O’Neal has one MVP award. He won it in 2000.
When is the NBA MVP typically announced?
The NBA MVP is usually announced in May. This year will be announced on 21 May 2025
Who is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and why is he a contender for the NBA MVP?
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a star player for the Oklahoma City Thunder. Because of his outstanding play, he’s a top MVP contender. He leads his team to the top of their division.
How many MVPs does Shaq have?
Shaquille O’Neal won 1 regular-season award. He was named the MVP in the 1999-2000 season.
When was LeBron’s last MVP?
LeBron James last won the MVP award in the 2012-2013 season. At the time, he was 28 years old and a member of the Miami Heat.