2025 NBA MVP Odds – Can Jokić Catch “SGA”?

Recently, the Thunder experienced back-to-back losses for the first time since November, marking only the second instance this season! The defeats were against Houston and the Los Angeles Lakers, yet ‘SGA’ was determined not to let the downturn extend into a third game. He showcased his brilliance with 42 points, six rebounds, and six assists in a decisive 16-point victory against the Lakers on April 8.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander solidifying an exceptional MVP candidacy with a remarkable scoring display against the Lakers in the OKC home finale ought to be a focal talking point today. pic.twitter.com/Rsm3Zlcfhh

— Brandon Rahbar (@BrandonRahbar) April 9, 2025

Although voter fatigue may impact this year's MVP selection, it shouldn't overshadow the incredible achievements of Gilgeous-Alexander who leads the league in scoring with an astonishing average of 32.7 points. SGA boasts an impressive 51.9% shooting percentage from the field, an outstanding feat for a guard, along with a 37.5% success rate from three-point range.

Additionally, he maintains a staggering free throw percentage of 89.8%. Alongside his scoring prowess, ‘SGA’ averages 6.4 assists, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.7 steals, contributing significantly to the best defensive unit in the NBA. It’s notable that despite holding the ball often, Gilgeous-Alexander records only 2.4 turnovers per outing.

He deserves recognition as an impressive candidate, but I believe the betting odds are disproportionately high for the Canadian. Some voters have expressed uncertainty about their choices. Nevertheless, considering the achievements of the team, which I value despite not having a vote, Gilgeous-Alexander stands as a strong favorite for this accolade.

It’s a massive credit to the season Jokic is demonstrating remarkable performance, emphasizing that this race is indeed competitive. He ranks third in scoring with an average of 30.0 points, matches for second in rebounds at 12.8, is second in assists with 10.2, and ranks second in steals at 1.8. He is also shooting at an impressive rate of 57.7% from the field and 41.5% from beyond the arc, along with an 80.3% free throw percentage.

Having come close to winning the MVP in recent seasons, the 'Joker' is poised to finish this campaign with impressive triple-double averages.

Over the past week, Nikola Jokic has put up astounding numbers averaging 45.0 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 10.7 assists per game.

Unfortunately for the Denver Nuggets, they suffered defeats in all three games during this period.

Consider revamping the entire management team; Calvin Booth is proving to be an ineffective general manager. pic.twitter.com/P5d5AQ3Yv6

— Scott Reichel (@ReichelRadio) April 7, 2025

While the Nuggets do have a reasonably good record by their standards, their recent poor performance led to changes in coaching staff, with Malone and Booth being dismissed. The defensive setup is struggling, and although Jokic contributes some steals, his reputation as a strong defender is lacking.

Debate surrounds how much of the Nuggets' challenges rest on Jokic's shoulders. Even though he may not excel defensively, he remains central to an offense that has been without Jamal Murray for a significant part of the season, and Michael Porter Jr. has also shown inconsistency throughout his career. Nevertheless, the Nuggets rank fourth in the league in terms of offensive efficiency. , thanks to the brilliance of Jokic.

The current difficulties faced by the Nuggets, coupled with potential voter fatigue, are likely to be significant factors in why what would typically be a standout season for Jokic might not secure him the MVP title.