As the 2025-26 season unfolds, few players generate as much attention as Nikola Jokić. With his résumé, historical dominance, and elite all-around production, he sits among the top contenders once again. Many are checking out the DraftKings MVP odds and he continues to feature prominently, reflecting the widespread belief that he remains one of the league’s most valuable players.
What makes his case so compelling is a rare combination of individual excellence, consistency, and the kind of impact few others — especially at his position — can match.
Jokić’s Season So Far: Stats and Standout Performances
Jokić is putting up elite numbers nearly every night. According to recent data, through the early portion of the 2025-26 season, he is averaging roughly 29.6 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 11.1 assists per game.
That alone would be outstanding. But what stands out is how often he delivers a triple-double. This season, he is leading the league in rebounds and assists and remains among the leaders in scoring.
One recent headline performance featured a 55-point outing on 18-of-23 shooting from the field in a win over the Los Angeles Clippers. That game included 12 rebounds and 6 assists.
In addition, his work rate and efficiency continue to impress. Through his career with the Denver Nuggets, he leads the franchise in total rebounds and assists and ranks high in career triple-doubles — by far the most in Nuggets history.
Given the combination of scoring, playmaking, efficiency, and volume, many analysts describe this season as perhaps the greatest statistical regular season a player — especially a center — has ever posted.
What the Media and Analysts Are Saying
Publications and pundits are generally united in the view that Jokić remains at the absolute top of the game. In a recent league-wide poll among NBA executives and insiders, a large majority said he is the “best player in the NBA today.”
On the latest MVP ladder from the league, Jokić occupies the #1 spot, with his triple-double production and overall stability cited as key reasons.
Media outlets note that he continues to redefine what a high-impact big man can be: a primary ball-handler, facilitator, rebounder, and top-tier scorer all in one player.
Still, some commentators point out the challenge Jokić faces: in an era with explosive scorers and dynamic guards, voters may prefer high-scoring lead guards or wing players — especially if their teams show better records. That makes it a tight race, and not one he can take for granted.
What Could Decide the MVP Race in Jokić’s Favor?
- Versatility and all-around excellence: Few players combine scoring, rebounding, passing, and high efficiency as consistently. If he maintains his triple-double pace, he will stand out historically.
- Durability and reliability: Through the season, he remains a rock for Denver, capable of playing heavy minutes and staying effective.
- Legacy and context: He is already a three-time MVP and among the most decorated centers in modern NBA history. Another MVP would cement his status among the all-time greats.
What factors could challenge his season reign?
- Team performance matters: Voters often reward players whose teams are among the very best. If his team struggles or doesn’t keep its standing high in the Western Conference, that could work against him. Some recent narratives mention other contenders with better team records.
- Strong competition: Other stars are having tremendous seasons — scoring machines and dynamic guards — which tends to attract attention in MVP conversations. That debate may split votes with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luka Doncic in the wings.
- “Narrative fatigue”: Having already won multiple MVPs, there might be a tendency among voters to lean toward someone “new” or with a fresher narrative. Some media pieces mention that possibility explicitly.
Our Take: Jokic Has a Great Shot, But It’s Not Guaranteed
At this point, I believe Nikola Jokić is one of the most legitimate MVP contenders in the history of the award — especially given his position as a center. His all-around production, consistent triple-doubles, elite efficiency, and leadership make a strong case to win again. If he sustains this pace, keeps his team among the top contenders in the West, and avoids serious injury, he has every tool needed to add another MVP trophy.
That said, it will come down to context. Voters may weigh team success and narrative factors heavily, and with a crowded field of stars, even historic seasons do not always guarantee the hardware.
For now, at least, the MVP conversation remains very much alive — and if you are watching, expect Jokić to stay near the top until the final ballots are cast.