SGA Or Jokić?

The 2024-25 NBA MVP race has evolved into a compelling duel between Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokić, each making powerful cases with historic performances.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has elevated his game dramatically, leading the NBA in scoring with 32.9 points per game, complemented by 6.3 assists and 5.1 rebounds. His efficiency, represented by a true shooting percentage of 63.9%, and impressive defensive prowess at 1.7 steals per game, underscores his all-around dominance. Under his leadership, the Thunder have surged to a league-best record, reflecting his tangible impact on winning basketball.

Yet, Nikola Jokić’s season stands out historically, as he remarkably averages a triple-double with 29.3 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game. His unparalleled shooting efficiency — 57.4% from the field and 41.2% from three — highlights a level of offensive mastery rarely witnessed. Advanced analytics further magnify his dominance; Jokić leads the NBA with a Player Efficiency Rating (PER) of 32 flat, emphasizing the generational aspect of his performance, as such sustained statistical brilliance from a center has never been observed before.

However, despite Jokić’s historic statistical accomplishments, the concept of "voter fatigue" is very real and significantly influences perceptions surrounding his MVP candidacy. Having previously secured multiple MVP awards, voters may subconsciously seek novelty, potentially undervaluing the sheer uniqueness of his current season. This phenomenon can unjustly cloud appreciation of a player achieving unprecedented feats simply because of his sustained excellence.

The MVP narrative ultimately pivots between recognizing Gilgeous-Alexander’s breakout season and rewarding Jokić’s generational and historically unmatched impact. As the season concludes, the final stretch of games could tip the scales in either direction, challenging voters to weigh fresh stardom against rare historic greatness.

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