Discover the main contenders for the NBA Most Valuable Player award in the 2026/27 season, featuring Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luka Doncic.
The 2026/27 NBA regular season tips off this Tuesday with an opening matchup between the Detroit Pistons and the Boston Celtics. Basketball fans are already heavily debating the race for the prestigious Most Valuable Player award across the league.
While the New York Knicks enter the campaign as the defending champions, Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander emerges once again as a top favorite to claim the individual trophy. Heavy competition surrounds him, including former winners and high-profile players who recently changed teams, according to information published by 365score.
To preview the action before the orange ball goes up, analysts have compiled a comprehensive breakdown of the ten primary candidates for the league honor. Major roster shifts and rising superstars promise to make this season one of the most unpredictable and thrilling races in recent memory.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Victor Wembanyama lead the early favorites
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander enters the season as the man to beat after securing the last two MVP trophies. Posting impressive averages of 31.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 6.6 assists, he boasts a mature roster that allows him to excel effortlessly.
Meanwhile, San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama transitions from a terrifying prospect into a full-scale reality. The French phenomenon anchors his team with averages of 25 points and 11.5 rebounds, aiming to secure his first career MVP nod if the Spurs reach the playoffs.
Nikola Jokic and Luka Doncic power Western Conference contenders
Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic remains the heart of his franchise, averaging a triple-double with 27.7 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 10.7 assists. The arrival of veteran DeMar DeRozan strengthens the Nuggets squad in their pursuit of another top finish.
Slovenian star Luka Doncic has officially taken over the Los Angeles Lakers following the LeBron James era. Armed with the ball for most possessions, Doncic posts staggering averages of 33.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 8.3 assists in the league's biggest market.
Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jayson Tatum navigate massive franchise changes
Two-time winner Giannis Antetokounmpo shocked the basketball world by signing with the Miami Heat, partnering with Bam Adebayo under coach Erik Spoelstra. With shooters like Klay Thompson spacing the floor, Giannis aims to replicate his previous MVP dominance.
In Boston, Jayson Tatum faces the ultimate leadership test following Jaylen Brown's departure. Alongside new acquisition Paul George, Tatum must maintain the Celtics at the top of the Eastern Conference to strengthen his personal award narrative.
Anthony Edwards and Cade Cunningham look to cement their elite status
Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards continues his ascent as an elite scorer, averaging 28.8 points per game. The addition of LaMelo Ball aims to alleviate defensive pressure and elevate Minnesota's high-octane offensive scheme.
Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham leads his reigning Eastern Conference top seed into a new campaign. Supported by new additions like John Collins, Cunningham carries the heavy responsibility of proving last season's surprising success was no fluke.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the 2026/27 NBA regular season begin?
The 2026/27 NBA regular season starts on Tuesday with an opening game between the Detroit Pistons and the Boston Celtics.
Who won the NBA MVP award in previous seasons?
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander won the MVP award for the 2024/25 and 2025/26 regular seasons as the star of the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Which players changed teams ahead of the 2026/27 NBA season?
Major player movements include Giannis Antetokounmpo joining the Miami Heat and Luka Doncic taking over the Los Angeles Lakers.
What are Nikola Jokic averages for the Denver Nuggets?
Nikola Jokic records remarkable triple-double averages of 27.7 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 10.7 assists per game for the Denver Nuggets.
