Jokić Reclaims MVP Lead Amid Intense Race with Gilgeous-Alexander

DENVER, Colo. — Nikola Jokić has surged to the top of the Kia MVP Ladder as of February 28, 2025, overtaking Oklahoma City Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in a tight race for the league’s most valuable player.

Jokić’s exceptional passing and playmaking abilities have contributed significantly to the Denver Nuggets’ recent success. His stellar performance against the Indiana Pacers showcased his skill set, delivering a game that highlighted his unrivaled vision and ability to elevate his teammates.

“The most remarkable thing is not just the 19 assists, but the satisfaction and joy that Nikola gets from making his teammates better,” Nuggets coach Michael Malone said. “He’d be happy getting 19 assists, no points, and us winning than any other superstar that I’ve ever come across.”

As the Nuggets continue to gain momentum, bolstered by teammates such as Jamal Murray, who is returning to form after a slow start, Jokić’s value to the team becomes increasingly clear. “This is a special season for Jokić, statistically better than any of his past,” an NBA analyst noted, underscoring the historic significance of his current performance.

With just six weeks remaining in the regular season, the competition for the MVP award is heating up. The next crucial match-up is a back-to-back showdown between the Nuggets and the Thunder on March 9-10 that could significantly influence the MVP race.

Gilgeous-Alexander, currently averaging 32.4 points, has shown remarkable efficiency and consistency as the leader of the Thunder, contributing to their top position in the Western Conference. He is also noted for his impressive scoring capacity, having reached 35-plus points in 20 games this season.

In other noteworthy performances, Boston Celtics MVP contender Jayson Tatum prepares for a crucial match against the Cleveland Cavaliers. As the Celtics aim to narrow the gap with the Cavs, Tatum’s contributions will be critical.

The race for MVP is expected to remain extraordinarily close, with Jokić and Gilgeous-Alexander likely switching places at the top of the ladder more than once before the season concludes. Meanwhile, multiple NBA veterans, including LeBron James, continue to perform, reaching impressive statistical milestones.

The excitement builds as the NBA regular season approaches its final stretch with heightened anticipation for the upcoming play-offs and MVP award ceremony.