In the latest MVP Ladder update, Nikola Jokić reclaimed the top spot, while LeBron James moved into the top-5.
Jokić has been a standout playmaker, helping the Nuggets secure wins and narrow the gap to the West-leading Oklahoma City Thunder.
Meanwhile, LeBron James’ averaged 29.3 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 6.9 assists while shooting 55% from the field, 44% from three, and 74% from the free-throw line.
Top 5 of the Kia MVP ladder
1. Nikola Jokić, Denver Nuggets
Season stats: 29.2 points, 12.6 rebounds, 10.4 assists
Jokić logged more triple-doubles (27) this season than in any MVP year.
With a triple-double in 21% of his career games, Jokić holds the highest rate in NBA history. His top February game was a 28-11-9 effort in 29 minutes against the Suns.
2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder
Season stats: 32.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, 6.2 assists
Gilgeous-Alexander continues to shine with his efficiency, scoring over 35 points in 20 games and maintaining 50% shooting in every month except October. Leading the West’s top team, he delivered his best performance in February, scoring 50 points against the Suns on 62% shooting, adding eight rebounds, five assists, and two steals.
3. Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics
Season stats: 26.6 points, 8.7 rebounds, 5.8 assists
Tatum has been consistent and improved his playmaking, recording 33 assists over his last four games. In February, he scored 40 points in a 27-point victory over the Knicks, followed by a 25-10-9 performance in another win against New York.
4. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks
Season stats: 30.9 points, 12.1 rebounds, 5.8 assists
Giannis, the second-highest scorer in the league, continues to produce double-doubles and shine defensively. His standout game in February was 23 points, 16 rebounds, and seven assists in a win over Miami. Staying healthy will be key for the Bucks as they remain in the East’s top six.
5. LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers
Season stats: 24.9 points, 8 rebounds, 8.7 assists
LeBron has been efficient, shooting 55% overall and 43% from three over the last two weeks, helping him climb into the top five.
February saw several impressive performances, including 40 points against Portland, 42 points, 17 rebounds, and 8 assists against the Warriors, and 27 points and 12 rebounds in a strong finish against the Mavericks.
The Next 5 MVP candidates
- Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves
- Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers
- Karl-Anthony Towns, New York Knicks
- Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons
- Jaren Jackson Jr., Memphis Grizzlies
And five more: Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors; Evan Mobley, Cleveland Cavaliers, Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento Kings; Alperen Sengun, Houston Rockets; Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks