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OKLAHOMA CITY— The race is wide open for both the championship title and the Finals MVP award as we head into Game 7 on Sunday at 8 PM ET on ABC. This is the moment where players will reach for greatness and strive to claim all the accolades associated with victory.
Will it be Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, Tyrese Haliburton, or Pascal Siakam leading the charge? These are the main contenders featured in this final update of the Finals MVP Ladder. However, there’s always the chance that an unexpected player could rise to the occasion, delivering an unforgettable performance that could alter the outcome of the vote.
The upcoming final four quarters of the series will be crucial. Game 7 carries more weight in the MVP discussion compared to the previous six games. It’s during this pivotal moment that legacies are established or tarnished. This is the time for players to shine and embrace the challenge without fear of failure—a mindset that distinguishes MVPs from others. Achieving greatness requires an athlete with a burning desire to etch their name in history.
A blend of mentality, talent, and possibly luck will be pivotal. For someone on this ladder, if everything aligns on Sunday, their bid for MVP will be indisputable.
Key statistic: T.J. McConnell, currently ranked No. 5 on this ladder, has accumulated more steals in the Finals (14 in six games) than in all three previous playoff rounds combined (five over 16 games).
Voices from the court: “One game for all your dreams. Win it and you receive everything. Lose it, and you walk away with nothing. It’s that straightforward.” —Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, reflecting on the stakes of Game 7.
2025 NBA Finals stats: 30.5 pts, 4.5 reb, 4.5 ast
His argument: Despite a lackluster Game 6, Gilgeous-Alexander is still in the lead for the MVP if OKC secures the championship. If that happens, the award would be his to lose, as OKC will need significant contributions from a player who has consistently delivered throughout the season and postseason.
Gilgeous-Alexander stands as the leading scorer in this series and is among the top steals leaders. While he had one disappointing game, the others were exceptional. His aspiration to become a first-time champion and enhance his impressive trophy collection from 2025 could bring out his finest performance.
2025 NBA Finals stats: 24.2 pts, 5.2 reb, 3.7 ast
His argument: His standout 40-point game in Game 5 is still the most significant scoring achievement of the series, and his role as a key player is historically notable in the Finals. Like his teammates, Williams struggled in Game 6, but his overall impact has been invaluable for the Thunder and has significantly bolstered his reputation.
At just 24 years old, his few setbacks are understandable and his numerous contributions commendable. He is a rising star, and with an impressive Game 7, he could spark a compelling MVP conversation with Gilgeous-Alexander.
2025 NBA Finals stats: 19.8 pts, 8.3 reb, 4.0 ast
Tyrese Haliburton snags a steal and dishes a no-look pass to Pascal Siakam, who powerfully dunks over Jalen Williams.
His argument: As the leading scorer and rebounder for the Pacers, Haliburton is the go-to player whenever Indiana needs a spark. Siakam has proven to be a challenging opponent for OKC, ranking just behind Nikola Jokić and Anthony Edwards as one of the most formidable threats against the Thunder’s top defense this postseason.
Siakam earned the conference finals MVP after helping the Pacers eliminate the Knicks and stands in position to claim another if Indiana triumphs in Game 7. He has been a game changer, and should he succeed, his acquisition from Toronto will be recognized as one of the most significant signings in the NBA in the last two decades.
2025 NBA Finals stats: 14.8 pts, 5.3 reb, 6.8 ast
DEEP TRIPLES. CLEVER FINISHES. NO-LOOK DIMES.
An UNFORGETTABLE performance from Tyrese Haliburton to clinch a WINNER-TAKE-ALL GAME 7 🤩pic.twitter.com/ypEJCiKeR7
— NBA (@NBA)June 20, 2025
His argument: Were it not for an unfortunate calf injury, Haliburton might be ranked higher. Nonetheless, he remains a strong candidate due to his overall impact in this series despite a less impressive Game 5. The Pacers have emerged victorious in three games largely thanks to Haliburton’s contributions.
If he delivers a standout Game 7, Haliburton could claim the Finals MVP, and given his track record of heroics this postseason, he certainly has the potential for one more game-defining shot.
2025 NBA Finals stats: 11.3 pts, 2.3 steals, 4.5 ast
T.J.’s HISTORIC GAME 6 FROM EVERY ANGLE 👀
Joined Robert Horry with the only 10p/5a/5r/4s Finals games off the bench since 1973-74 🤯🤯
WHAT DOES MCCONNELL HAVE IN STORE FOR GAME 7 ON SUNDAY???pic.twitter.com/VUBbUWXrCe
— NBA (@NBA)June 20, 2025
His argument: McConnell has energized the Pacers off the bench, boosting their chances in the last two games and helping them split the series—a performance that’s not his fault, considering that his energy has been vital to changing the pace of play.
He has had standout moments, including stealing inbounds passes and executing mid-range jump shots, providing much-needed support for Haliburton and other guards during their off nights. If he can pull off Game 7-winning plays on Sunday, he will undoubtedly earn votes for MVP of the series.
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Shaun Powell has been covering the NBA for over 25 years. You can reach out to him via email, explore his archives, and follow him on X.
The opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily represent those of the NBA, its teams, or Warner Bros. Discovery.
