Like last year, there are only two candidates: Shai and Jokic. Nikola leads in assists and rebounds per game. Shai doesn't lead in points. Oklahoma already has more losses than a year ago. If Denver finishes in the top three of the conference, Jokic is unquestionable. Denver looked good without Jokic, but they had a relatively easy schedule. Oklahoma looked worse without Shai, but they faced a rather difficult schedule. The head-to-head matchups are in Shai's favor. Shai was the best player of the game, while Jokic wasn't his team's best, and Shai is a two-way player. I hope for a few MVP points for Khawai Lenard because he definitely deserves for this season.
As someone who’s followed the season closely, I can see the argument both ways. Jokic’s impact through playmaking and rebounding is still unmatched, but Shai’s two-way presence and clutch performances—especially in the head-to-head games—make the race really tight. If Denver finishes top three it strengthens Jokic’s case, though Shai carrying OKC and dominating those matchups makes him just as deserving.mrfastflow said:
