Nikola Jokić vs. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Who Will Claim the MVP Title in the 2025 Season?

The NBA MVP race for the 2025 season has become a heated battle between two of the league’s most outstanding superstars: Nikola Jokić and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Both players have displayed sheer dominance throughout the season, leading their respective teams to success while posting impressive individual performances. The question remains—who will walk away with the league’s most coveted individual award?

The Case for Nikola Jokić

Nikola Jokić, the Denver Nuggets’ do-it-all center, has continued his reign as one of the best players in the NBA. Already a two-time MVP, the Serbian big man has proven time and again that he is one of the most skilled and efficient players the league has ever seen. The Nuggets’ franchise cornerstone has carried his team with a combination of elite scoring, next-level playmaking, and strong rebounding.

Unmatched Statistical Dominance

Jokić’s numbers this season have been nothing short of phenomenal. Averaging around 26 points, 12 rebounds, and 9 assists per game, he has once again flirted with averaging a triple-double. His efficiency has been remarkable, shooting over 55% from the field while maintaining his ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting.

Beyond his raw numbers, Jokić’s advanced metrics further support his MVP candidacy. He leads the league in Player Efficiency Rating (PER), Win Shares, and Box Plus-Minus (BPM), indicating just how impactful he is in every aspect of the game.

Denver Nuggets’ Success

The Nuggets have remained a powerhouse in the Western Conference, largely due to Jokić’s ability to control the game. Denver’s offense flows entirely through him, as his elite passing ability allows his teammates to thrive. His presence on the court makes the Nuggets one of the most efficient offensive teams in the league.

Another factor boosting his MVP case is that he has kept Denver at the top of the standings despite injuries to key teammates. While Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. have missed games at various points in the season, Jokić has ensured the team continues to win. His ability to elevate his team, regardless of injuries, further solidifies his case for MVP.

The Case for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

On the other side of the debate stands Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA), the Oklahoma City Thunder’s rising superstar. While Jokić is already established as one of the league’s best, SGA has made an undeniable case for himself as an MVP candidate this season. His growth as a player and leader has elevated OKC into serious contention in the Western Conference.

Scoring Brilliance and Efficiency

Gilgeous-Alexander has been one of the NBA’s most lethal scorers this season, averaging around 31 points per game on over 50% shooting from the field. His ability to score at all three levels—inside the paint, mid-range, and beyond the arc—makes him an unstoppable offensive force. He has also been incredibly efficient from the free-throw line, shooting above 90%, an elite mark for any player.

Additionally, SGA’s isolation scoring and clutch performances have been key highlights of his season. Whether it’s breaking down defenders with his smooth handles or finishing strong at the rim, his offensive prowess has been on full display throughout the season.

Defensive Impact

Unlike many elite scorers, SGA has also emerged as a strong defender, ranking among the league leaders in steals and deflections. His defensive versatility allows him to guard multiple positions, making him an asset on both ends of the floor. His ability to disrupt passing lanes and create fast-break opportunities further enhances his value.

OKC’s Transformation into a Contender

Perhaps the most compelling aspect of SGA’s MVP argument is his role in transforming the Thunder into a serious contender. Just a few seasons ago, Oklahoma City was considered a rebuilding team. Now, under his leadership, they are competing for a top seed in the Western Conference.

With young talents like Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams supporting him, SGA has taken on the role of the primary leader and offensive focal point. His ability to carry the team, make big plays in crucial moments, and elevate his teammates has been instrumental in OKC’s rise.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Both players bring unique qualities to the table. While Jokić is a triple-double machine who controls the entire game, SGA is an elite scorer with a strong defensive presence. This makes the MVP debate incredibly close, with arguments supporting both players’ cases.

What Could Determine the MVP Winner?

1. Team Success

While individual performances matter in MVP voting, team success plays a critical role. If either Denver or OKC finishes with the best record in the West, it could give that player the edge in the MVP race.

2. Narrative and Storyline

MVP voting often considers the season’s narrative. If Jokić wins, it would further cement his legacy as one of the greatest big men in NBA history. If SGA wins, it would be a statement that a new superstar has officially arrived. The media and voters often lean toward compelling stories when making their decisions.

3. Clutch Performances and Key Matchups

How these players perform in big games, especially against each other, could sway voters. If one player consistently outperforms the other in crucial moments, it may tip the scales in their favor.

Final Prediction: Who Will Win?

The MVP race between Nikola Jokić and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is one of the closest in recent memory. Both players have valid cases, but the final decision will likely come down to team success and how they perform in the final stretch of the season.

• If Denver finishes as the No. 1 seed and Jokić continues putting up near-triple-double stats, he could claim his third MVP award.

• If OKC secures a top seed and SGA maintains his elite scoring while continuing to impact both ends of the floor, he could win his first MVP and officially enter the league’s elite tier.