MVP Race Overview
As we delve into the MVP race for the NBA 2025-26 season, Nikola Jokic has maintained his position as the frontrunner in terms of betting odds for the second consecutive week. However, my assessment takes a different view. Significant changes in odds were seen with players like Victor Wembanyama and Alperen Sengun, while Tyrese Maxey and Cade Cunningham continue to showcase exceptional performances, keeping their names prominent in the conversation. For the latest intraday odds and player props, don’t miss out on DraftKings, a leading sportsbook for NBA action this week!
Vaughn Dalzell’s Updated MVP Rankings
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder, +190)
- Points Per Game: 32.2 (3rd)
- Assists Per Game: 6.6 (16th)
- Rebounds Per Game: 4.9 (94th)
Gilgeous-Alexander has had a remarkable season, managing to keep his minute count in check with substantial efficiency. Throughout 11 of 18 games, he played 30 minutes or less, yet his impressive usage rate of 32.7% ranks fifth in the league. He managed to score 31 points on a superb shooting performance, contributing to the Thunder’s outstanding record of 17 wins against just one loss.
- Nikola Jokic (Denver Nuggets, +130)
- Points Per Game: 29.6 (6th)
- Rebounds Per Game: 12.8 (2nd)
- Assists Per Game: 11.1 (1st)
Jokic’s skills continue to shine, having recorded six triple-doubles out of 12 games so far this month. Additionally, he had a streak of 11 games scoring at least 26 points until last night. Despite Denver’s 13-4 record and Jokic’s dominant stats, the Thunder’s success has edged him to second in my rankings.
- Luka Doncic (Los Angeles Lakers, +400)
- Points Per Game: 34.5 (1st)
- Assists Per Game: 8.9 (4th)
- Rebounds Per Game: 8.8 (18th)
Doncic’s scoring prowess remains unquestionable, yet he hasn’t seen a change in his odds over the week despite impressive numbers in recent games. His recent performances have been stellar, with significant point totals and double-doubles, although issues with turnovers persist.
- Cade Cunningham (Detroit Pistons, +5000)
- Points Per Game: 27.1 (14th)
- Rebounds Per Game: 6.0 (T-55th)
- Assists Per Game: 9.6 (2nd)
Cunningham has emerged as a critical player for Detroit, which boasts the best record in the Eastern Conference after winning 13 consecutive games. His scoring has been vital, but upcoming tough matchups will test his capabilities and the Pistons’ resilience.
- Tyrese Maxey (Philadelphia 76ers, +4000)
- Points Per Game: 33.0 (2nd)
- Rebounds Per Game: 4.6 (T-106th)
- Assists Per Game: 7.8 (6th)
Maxey’s recent outing saw him score a staggering 54 points against the Bucks, showcasing his electric offensive skills. Despite his individual success, Philadelphia’s mixed results reflect the team’s struggles, even as Maxey’s odds tighten.
Trends This Week
Stock Up: Jokic’s MVP odds remain strong as he continues consistently to rank in the top tier for points, rebounds, and assists this season.
Stock Down: Victor Wembanyama has faced a notable decline in his odds amid injury concerns, now landing at +10000. Alperen Sengun’s odds also plummeted from +8000 to +20000, indicating that player performance can drastically affect MVP standings.
As the NBA season progresses, maintaining an eye on player performances, injury updates, and team dynamics will be crucial for evaluating the MVP landscape. For the latest NBA updates, catch the action on NBC and streaming via Peacock, which will air multiple games each week deserving of your attention this season.
