Particle.news
Download on the App Store
6 ARTICLES
·
last mo.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokić Lead Heated NBA MVP Race

The Oklahoma City Thunder star's dominant performance against the Denver Nuggets highlights a closely contested battle for the league's top individual honor.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - MARCH 9: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder attempts to drive past Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets during the first half at Paycom Center on March 9, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Joshua Gateley/Getty Images)
Jokić was at times frustrated by Oklahoma's size.
In Monday night's matchup between the Nuggets and Thunder, OKC is a heavy home favorite after beating Denver 127-103 on Sunday.
Image

Overview

  • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 40 points in the Thunder's 127-103 victory over the Nuggets, solidifying his position as a leading MVP candidate.
  • Nikola Jokić, a three-time MVP, delivered a near triple-double in the loss but faced tough defense and struggled to take over in the fourth quarter.
  • Gilgeous-Alexander currently leads the league in scoring and has propelled the Thunder to a 53-11 record, the second-best in the NBA this season.
  • Jokić recently made history with the first-ever 30-20-20 game in the NBA, showcasing his unique skill set despite Denver's 12-game deficit to OKC in the standings.
  • Historical voting trends suggest that voters may favor the 'newcomer' Gilgeous-Alexander over Jokić, who has already won three MVP awards in recent years.