As the NBA’s Christmas Day slate approaches, the MVP conversation is shifting into high gear. While familiar faces like Nikola Jokić and Giannis Antetokounmpo continue to dominate, Luka Dončić’s December surge has propelled him into the top five, shaking up the Kia MVP Ladder.
Here’s a closer look at the frontrunners and rising stars in the race for the league’s most coveted individual honor.
1. Nikola Jokić, Denver Nuggets
Last Ladder: No. 1
Season Stats: 31.0 PPG, 13.0 RPG, 9.8 APG
The Case:
Jokić’s historic start keeps him atop the MVP Ladder as the only player in the league’s top three for scoring, rebounding, and assists. Whether dominating in the paint or orchestrating the offense with surgical precision, “The Joker” remains the heart of the Nuggets. His impact is undeniable, and with Denver’s success tied so closely to his play, he’s the frontrunner as the season nears its critical Christmas Day checkpoint.
2. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks
Last Ladder: No. 2
Season Stats: 32.7 PPG, 11.5 RPG, 6.1 APG
The Case:
Antetokounmpo’s dominance was on full display in the NBA Cup Final, where he carried the Bucks past the Thunder with relentless drives and defensive mastery. Averaging over 32 points per game, Giannis continues to make a strong case for the No. 1 spot. With a solid finish to December, he could leapfrog Jokić in the next rankings.
3. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder
Last Ladder: No. 3
Season Stats: 30.5 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 6.3 APG
The Case:
Shai has been the driving force behind the Thunder’s rise, including their impressive NBA Cup run. Despite a rare off night in the championship game, his consistent excellence this season places him firmly in the top three. Shai’s ability to take over games on both ends of the floor solidifies his position as a legitimate MVP contender.
4. Luka Dončić, Dallas Mavericks
Last Ladder: No. 6
Season Stats: 28.9 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 8.2 APG
The Case:
Dončić has stormed into the top five thanks to a stellar December. He’s averaging over 30 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists per game this month while improving his defensive contributions. His recent 45-point triple-double against the Warriors showcased his all-around brilliance and cemented his status as a rising MVP candidate. With the Mavericks set to face the Timberwolves on Christmas Day, Luka has a chance to make an even stronger statement.
5. Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics
Last Ladder: No. 4
Season Stats: 28.3 PPG, 9.0 RPG, 5.5 APG
The Case:
Tatum continues to deliver for the Celtics, including a 34-point performance against Giannis and the Bucks. With Boston sitting near the top of the Eastern Conference, Tatum’s balanced production on offense and defense keeps him in the MVP conversation. An upcoming stretch of favorable matchups gives him the opportunity to pad his stats and climb higher on the ladder.
The Next 5
- Karl-Anthony Towns, New York Knicks
- Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers
- Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs
- Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks
- Tyler Herro, Miami Heat
Honorable Mentions (Alphabetical)
- James Harden, LA Clippers
- Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers
- Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics
- Jaren Jackson Jr., Memphis Grizzlies
- Alperen Sengun, Houston Rockets
Final Thoughts
With the Christmas Day games just around the corner, the MVP race is shaping up to be a battle of giants. Whether it’s Jokić’s all-around dominance, Giannis’ two-way brilliance, or Luka’s December surge, the race is far from decided.
Who do you think will take the lead heading into 2025? Let us know in the comments!
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