In a recent early-season MVP poll conducted by ESPN, Nikola Jokic, the standout center for the Denver Nuggets, has emerged as the leading candidate. This initial survey offers a glimpse into the top contenders for the league's most prestigious individual award, showcasing both established superstars and rising talents.
ESPN's Early MVP Poll: Nikola Jokic Leads a Star-Studded Field
Denver Nuggets sensation Nikola Jokic has seized the top spot in ESPN's inaugural MVP straw poll for the upcoming NBA season, as reported by Tim Bontemps. Jokic garnered seven votes, positioning him slightly ahead of Oklahoma City Thunder's dynamic guard, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who collected five votes. Following them was Luka Doncic with four votes, while promising young talent Victor Wembanyama secured two votes. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Anthony Edwards each received one vote, rounding out a competitive list of early frontrunners. Jokic is set to enter the 2025–26 season as a three-time MVP, a testament to his continued dominance and status as one of the NBA's all-time elite players. A Western Conference scout remarked to ESPN, \"[Jokic is] the best player, and they’ll be better,\" reflecting high confidence in the Nuggets' championship-caliber roster. Last season, Jokic achieved career-best averages in points (29.6), rebounds (12.7), and assists (10.2), with impressive shooting splits of 57.6% from the field and 41.7% from beyond the arc. Meanwhile, Gilgeous-Alexander, building on his 2025 MVP-winning season, led the Thunder with averages of 32.7 points, 6.4 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game, showcasing his elite scoring and playmaking abilities. Luka Doncic, despite a midseason trade to the Lakers, remained in the MVP conversation, posting averages of 28.2 points, 7.5 assists, and 8.1 rebounds. San Antonio Spurs' rising star Victor Wembanyama demonstrated significant growth in his sophomore year, contributing 24.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 3.8 blocks per game. Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks and Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves also maintained their elite status, with Antetokounmpo averaging 30.4 points and 11.9 rebounds, and Edwards putting up 27.6 points, 5.5 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per contest.
This early MVP poll underscores the depth of talent within the NBA and highlights the consistent excellence required to be considered among the league's best. It serves as an exciting preview of the individual battles and team performances that will undoubtedly define the upcoming season.
