Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic has emerged as the clear early favorite to win the National Basketball Association's (NBA) Most Valuable Player award for the 2025-26 season. The latest rankings, released in early December 2025, place the Serbian superstar at the pinnacle of the conversation, thanks to his unparalleled consistency and dominant all-around play.
Jokic's Unmatched Statistical Dominance
Through the opening stretch of the campaign, Jokic has put up video game-like numbers that solidify his MVP candidacy. He is currently averaging 29.6 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 11.1 assists per game. This near-triple-double average underscores his unique ability to control every facet of the game, from scoring and rebounding to orchestrating the offense as his team's primary playmaker.
Perhaps just as crucial to his case is his remarkable durability. Jokic has not missed a single game this season, a stark contrast to some of his fellow contenders who have dealt with absences. This availability and relentless production give him a significant edge in the early MVP ladder.
The Chasing Pack: SGA and Doncic in the Hunt
Occupying the second spot in the MVP rankings is the Oklahoma City Thunder's guard, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He enters the season as the reigning MVP and Finals MVP, carrying the momentum of a championship-winning performance. His elite two-way play and scoring prowess keep him firmly in the hunt to reclaim the league's top individual honor.
Hot on their heels in third place is Los Angeles Lakers forward Luka Doncic. The perennial All-Star is known for his offensive wizardry and high-volume scoring, making him a constant threat to climb the rankings. The competition between these three elite talents is expected to be a defining storyline throughout the NBA season.
What This Means for the Season Ahead
Jokic's position at the top sets the stage for a thrilling MVP race. While his statistical output is historically great, maintaining this pace over an 82-game season is the ultimate challenge. The pressure will now be on Gilgeous-Alexander and Doncic to elevate their own games and team success to dethrone the Nuggets' maestro.
For Filipino NBA fans, this race offers a compelling narrative to follow, featuring some of the most skilled and entertaining players in the world. The early lead belongs to Nikola Jokic, but with most of the season still to play, the battle for the 2025-26 NBA MVP award is far from decided.
