The 2026 NBA MVP Race Is Closer Than You Think

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander or Nikola Jokić? The Dunker Spot crew digs into the MVP race and why this year feels different.

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. walk through their full MVP ladders: why SGA still holds the No. 1 spot, how Jokić keeps putting up absurd stat lines on a winning Nuggets team, and where Luka Dončić, Jalen Brunson and the rest of the field fit in.

Who’s YOUR MVP right now — SGA, Jokić, Luka, Brunson or someone else? Drop your top 3 in the comments 👇

0:00 – Steve’s MVP No. 1: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
3:03 – Jokić’s Case: On/Off Numbers & Nuggets Context
6:46 – How Much Does Defense Matter for SGA vs. Jokić?
10:39 – Steve’s No. 3: Luka Dončić Enters the Chat
15:24 – Anthony Edwards, Cade Cunningham & More!

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