Jokić vs. Shai: Who’s the Real MVP Frontrunner So Far?

As the 2025 NBA season heats up, the MVP race is seemingly going to either the Denver Nuggets’ Nikola Jokić or the Oklahoma City Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Shai is currently leading the league in scoring, averaging an impressive 32 points per game, along with 5.3 rebounds and 6.1 assists. His Oklahoma City Thunder have been dominant this season, sitting at an impressive 36-8 record. They are likely to secure the number one seed in the Western Conference.

On the other hand, Jokić continues to showcase his incredible skills, currently averaging a triple-double with 30.2 points, 13.4 rebounds, and 10.1 assists per game. While he may not lead the league in any particular category, his all-around game and ability to control the flow of the game have made him a terrifying presence on the court. Currently, the Denver Nuggets hold a 28-16 record, and Jokic's performance has been pivotal to their success. Not bad for a player who almost looks like he does not care all the time.

While players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Jayson Tatum are also in the conversation, they have not made the same impact as Jokić and Shai this season. If Jokić secures the MVP Award this year, it would mark his fourth win in five seasons, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest centers in NBA history. If Shai wins, he could solidify himself as the future of the NBA, and if he keeps up his 30 points per-game average, he could end up being one of the greatest scorers in NBA history. Shai had a chance to win MVP last season with stiff competition but ultimately went to Jokić once again. With OKC holding one of the best records in the league, Shai’s chances of winning this year are even more possible.