The 2025–26 NBA season continues to deliver elite performances, and the Kia MVP Ladder reflects just how tightly contested the Most Valuable Player conversation has become. With stars putting up historic numbers and several teams jockeying for positioning, the MVP race remains one of the most intriguing storylines in basketball this winter. (NBA.com)
At the top of the leaderboard, Nikola Jokić, Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander, and Luka Dončić have maintained their positions as the premier candidates, combining elite statistics with team success. Meanwhile, players like Jalen Brunson, Cade Cunningham, Victor Wembanyama, Jaylen Brown, Alperen Şengün, Anthony Edwards, and Tyrese Maxey are pushing the conversation with their own high-level contributions. (NBA.com)
Top 10 Kia MVP Ladder (Dec. 20, 2025)
| Rank | Player | Team | Role in MVP Race |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nikola Jokić | Denver Nuggets | Defensive anchor & all‑around producer |
| 2 | Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander | Oklahoma City Thunder | Elite scorer & consistent leader |
| 3 | Luka Dončić | Los Angeles Lakers | Superstar scorer & facilitator |
| 4 | Jalen Brunson | New York Knicks | Momentum from NBA Cup success |
| 5 | Cade Cunningham | Detroit Pistons | All‑around offensive presence |
| 6 | Victor Wembanyama | San Antonio Spurs | Two-way impact, rim protection, playmaker |
| 7 | Jaylen Brown | Boston Celtics | Scoring consistency & defensive versatility |
| 8 | Alperen Şengün | Houston Rockets | Facilitating big man, interior scoring & passing |
| 9 | Anthony Edwards | Minnesota Timberwolves | Athletic scorer & clutch performer |
| 10 | Tyrese Maxey | Philadelphia 76ers | High-volume backcourt scorer & efficiency (NBA.com) |
Top Contenders Breakdown
1. Nikola Jokić — Denver Nuggets
Jokić remains at the top of the MVP Ladder thanks to his rare combination of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking. Averaging near triple-double numbers, he anchors the Nuggets’ offense while leading Denver to one of the top Western Conference records. His efficiency and ability to control games set him apart. (NBA.com)
2. Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander — Oklahoma City Thunder
Shai has been consistently elite, averaging over 32 points per game and controlling the tempo for the Thunder. His role as the team’s focal point, coupled with high-level efficiency, keeps him firmly in MVP contention. (NBA.com)
3. Luka Dončić — Los Angeles Lakers
Dončić combines scoring and playmaking at elite levels, averaging near triple-double stats and delivering highlight performances almost nightly. His ability to dominate games, even against top defenses, keeps him a top-three MVP candidate. (NBA.com)
4. Jalen Brunson — New York Knicks
Brunson has leveraged his success from the NBA Cup to climb the ladder. His consistent scoring, leadership, and efficiency have strengthened his MVP case, particularly as he leads the Knicks in high-pressure situations. (NBA.com)
5. Cade Cunningham — Detroit Pistons
Cunningham’s versatility allows him to contribute as a scorer, facilitator, and rebounder. He remains a strong candidate due to his ability to elevate Detroit’s offense and keep his team competitive in close games. (NBA.com)
Mid-Tier MVP Contenders (6–10)
6. Victor Wembanyama — San Antonio Spurs
Wembanyama is averaging 25 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 blocks per game. His unique combination of rim protection, rebounding, and floor-spacing makes him a two-way impact player for San Antonio. He is recognized as a rising star with MVP potential due to his versatile impact on both ends of the court. (NBA.com)
7. Jaylen Brown — Boston Celtics
Brown is scoring around 29 points per game while contributing defensively and as a secondary playmaker. His consistency and team success in the Eastern Conference make him a serious mid-tier MVP contender. (NBA.com)
8. Alperen Şengün — Houston Rockets
Şengün averages 24 points and 9 rebounds per game, excelling as a facilitator from the post. His ability to create scoring opportunities for teammates and stretch the floor gives Houston offensive versatility, making him a compelling candidate. (NBA.com)
9. Anthony Edwards — Minnesota Timberwolves
Edwards is averaging 29 points per game and continues to make highlight-reel plays. His athleticism and scoring ability, particularly in clutch moments, keep Minnesota competitive and make him a recognized MVP candidate despite team record challenges. (NBA.com)
10. Tyrese Maxey — Philadelphia 76ers
Maxey averages 31 points per game, excelling as a dynamic scorer in Philadelphia’s backcourt. His efficiency, off-ball movement, and ability to perform in high-pressure games strengthen his MVP profile. (NBA.com)
The MVP award considers both individual excellence and team impact. Factors include:
- Consistency vs. peak performance: Players like Jokić and Shai consistently produce, while Dončić and Maxey provide game-changing moments.
- Team success: Higher standings often boost a candidate’s case, favoring players like Jokić, Shai, and Brown.
- Narrative and momentum: Brunson’s NBA Cup performance and Wembanyama’s rise show how storylines influence voting. (NBA.com)
What to Watch Next
- Marquee matchups between top MVP candidates.
- Team standings and playoff implications impacting voter perception.
- Emerging performances from players climbing the ladder.
With high-profile games over the holidays, the MVP race is likely to shift, making every game crucial for the top 10 contenders. (NBA.com)
