NBA MVP Odds: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Remains the Frontrunner According to Players
For the first 25 Most Valuable Player awards in NBA history, the league’s players held the power to decide the winner. That changed in 1981, but it’s time to revisit that tradition. The Athletic’s 2026 Anonymous NBA Player Poll reveals the players’ perspective on the closely contested 2025-26 MVP debate.
From late February through April, our writers surveyed a record-high 161 players – approximately one-third of the league – granting them anonymity to ensure honest responses. The results offer a fascinating look into the minds of those who compete on the hardwood every night.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Dominates the Player Vote
While San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama generated significant buzz and even advocated for himself, Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander remains the clear favorite among players. He didn’t just top the poll; he nearly doubled the support of the second-place finisher, Denver’s Nikola Jokić.
This outcome is somewhat ironic, considering Wembanyama’s efforts to sway voters and oddsmakers. However, it’s a testament to the strength of the competition and Gilgeous-Alexander’s consistently exceptional performance.
SGA’s Impressive Stats and Consistency
The 27-year-old Gilgeous-Alexander is currently second in the league in scoring (31.1 points per game) with a remarkable field-goal percentage (55.3%). He excels in all facets of the game, from midrange shots to long-range bombs and relentless attacks at the rim. His footwork has been compared to legends like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant.
“Shai has been super consistent,” one player commented. “They’ve had injuries, and he’s stayed consistent. We take it for granted, but he scores at least 20 every night. He’s had a lot of his guys injured, and they’re still No. 1 in the West.”
Gilgeous-Alexander’s historic streak of 140 consecutive games with 20-plus points further solidifies his case. He also averages 6.6 assists, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.4 steals for the Thunder, who boast the league’s seventh-ranked offense, top defense, and best record (64-16).
Other Contenders: Jokić, Brown, Cunningham, and Dončić
Nikola Jokić of the Denver Nuggets continues to be a dominant force, averaging 27.8 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 10.9 assists. He’s on track to lead the league in both assists and rebounds, a feat last accomplished by Wilt Chamberlain in 1968.
Jaylen Brown of the Boston Celtics has stepped up in the absence of key teammates, proving his worth as a ‘1A’ player and keeping the Celtics competitive. Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons showcased his elite potential before a lung injury sidelined him, and Luka Dončić of the Los Angeles Lakers has been brilliant despite team injuries.
The Verdict: SGA Poised for Back-to-Back MVP Awards
Despite a strong field of contenders, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s consistency, efficiency, and leadership have positioned him as the clear frontrunner for the NBA MVP award. If he wins, he’ll become the first player since Nikola Jokić (2021-2022) to win the award consecutively, and the 14th player in NBA history to achieve this feat. His ability to thrive even without key teammates like Jalen Williams further strengthens his claim to the throne.
As one player succinctly put it: “He’s the best player on the best team. What more do you have to say?”
You can find more information about NBA stats and player profiles on NBA.com and Stathead.com.
