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In a notable shift on the competitive Kia MVP Ladder, Nikola Jokić has surpassed Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in this week’s rankings.
In other words, he has reclaimed the top position after a stellar performance, recently distributing assists for the Nuggets and leading them to victories that keep them in close pursuit of the Oklahoma City Thunder, who are at the helm of the Western Conference, along with Gilgeous-Alexander.
His remarkable 19-assist performance last Monday against the Pacers is arguably the most impressive showing of playmaking by a big man in recent memory, if not the best ever. This is consistent with what we’ve come to expect from Jokić, whose exceptional court awareness, finesse, and willingness to share the ball solidify his status as a future Hall of Famer.
Jokić’s season is gaining momentum as the Nuggets are hitting their stride at the opportune moment — thanks in part to teammates like Jamal Murray, who is finally finding his rhythm after a slow start. In the early phase of the season, when his teammates were struggling, Jokić often had to take it upon himself to score more than he would have liked. Recently, however, it has been his passing, rebounding, and even defensive steals that breathe new life into the Nuggets, who are beginning to support him more.
This season marks a significant achievement for Jokić, statistically outshining any of his previous MVP years and making history in various aspects.
As the regular season enters its final stretch, the MVP race is heating up. With six weeks still to go, it’s plausible that Gilgeous-Alexander and Jokić might trade places on the ladder multiple times, highlighting how closely contested their seasons have been.
Mark your calendars for March 9 and 10, when the Nuggets will take on the Thunder in a back-to-back clash that could be decisive for the MVP standings — potentially for the entire season.
Scheduled for this week: A crucial matchup on Friday in Boston (7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN) as the Cavaliers, sitting at the top of the Eastern Conference, aim to even the season series against the Celtics at two games each. Will the Celtics manage to narrow the gap on the Cavs’ 6.5-game lead for the East’s top seed? MVP candidate Jayson Tatum will play a crucial role as he faces off against Donovan Mitchell (currently ranked No. 7) and Evan Mobley.
Notable statistic: LeBron James, who has entered the top five on the Ladder this week, will turn 40 in December. Since then, he has averaged 26 points, eight assists, nearly eight rebounds, and has shooting percentages of 54%, showcasing remarkable efficiency.
Quoting them: “The most astonishing aspect isn’t merely the 19 assists, but the joy and fulfillment that Nikola derives from elevating his teammates’ performances. He would be just as pleased to record 19 assists without scoring a single point if it meant we won — a sentiment that is rare among superstars I’ve encountered. It truly reflects his character.” — Nuggets head coach Michael Malone on Jokić.
Previous ranking: No. 2
Current season statistics: 29.2 points, 12.6 rebounds, 10.4 assists
His argument: He recently achieved a triple-double with 32 points, hitting 13 of his 16 attempts against the Bucks. This has become a routine occurrence for him. He’s recorded more triple-doubles (27 and counting) this season than in any of his MVP campaigns.
Jokić’s ability to secure a triple-double occurs in 21% of his career contests, the highest percentage among all players. Noteworthy performance from February? Many contenders exist, but he posted 28 points, 11 rebounds, and 9 assists in just 29 minutes against the Suns.
Previous ranking: No. 1
Current season statistics: 32.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, 6.2 assists
His argument: Those anticipating a dip in efficiency from Gilgeous-Alexander are still left waiting — potentially in vain. He has logged 20 games with over 35 points and has maintained a shooting percentage above 50% every month, except for a four-game stretch in October, all while leading the top team in the West with limited help from a traditional center.
His standout moment in February? A remarkable 50-point game against the Suns, where he shot 62%. He also contributed eight rebounds, five assists, and two steals during that performance.
Previous ranking: No. 4
Current season statistics: 26.6 points, 8.7 rebounds, 5.8 assists
His argument: Tatum’s steady performance continues as March arrives, with his playmaking notably improving — he has tallied 33 assists over the last four games.
His highlight in February was scoring 40 points while leading the Celtics to a 27-point victory over the Knicks, followed by a 25-10-9 showing in another win against New York.
Previous ranking: No. 3
Current season statistics: 30.9 points, 12.1 rebounds, 5.8 assists
His argument: The league’s second-highest scorer remains a consistent force on both ends of the floor. His health is vital to maintaining the Bucks’ position within the top six in the Eastern Conference.
In February, his best game featured 23 points, 16 rebounds, and seven assists in a triumph over Miami. However, Antetokounmpo only participated in six games during the month.
Previous ranking: No. 6
Current season statistics: 24.9 points, 8 rebounds, 8.7 assists
His argument: He’s been shooting at rates of 55% overall and 43% from three in the past two weeks, leading up to and following the All-Star Weekend. This efficiency has contributed to James climbing into the top five on the Ladder, as he has been consistently productive throughout the season.
His standout performance in February? It’s hard to pinpoint. Was it his 40-point game against Portland after a loss? Or 42 points against the Warriors, accompanied by 17 rebounds and eight assists? Or perhaps a strong finale against the Mavericks with 27 points and 12 rebounds? All performances warrant mention.
6. Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves
7. Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers
8. Karl-Anthony Towns, New York Knicks
9. Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons
10. Jaren Jackson Jr., Memphis Grizzlies
Additionally, five other players (listed alphabetically): Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors; Evan Mobley, Cleveland Cavaliers; Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento Kings; Alperen Sengun, Houston Rockets; Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks.
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Shaun Powell has reported on the NBA for over 25 years. You can email him here, browse his archive here, and follow him on X.
The opinions expressed on this page do not necessarily reflect those of the NBA, its teams, or Warner Bros. Discovery.
