Who’s Leading the MVP Race? Mid-Season Power Rankings

5.) Jayson Tatum – Boston Celtics’ Mid-Season MVP Contender

Jayson Tatum, the dynamic forward for the Boston Celtics, is widely regarded as one of the most versatile players in the NBA today. Known for his scoring prowess, defensive capabilities, and playmaking skills, Tatum has become the cornerstone of a Celtics franchise that is consistently in the championship conversation. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the court makes him indispensable to Boston’s success.

Jayson Tatum’s 2024-2025 Season Stats:

• Points: 28.5
• Rebounds: 9.5
• Assists: 5.6
• Blocks: 0.5
• Minutes: 36:23

The Glue of the Celtics

Tatum’s role on the Celtics goes far beyond his stats. As the ultimate “whatever it takes” player, he excels as a defender, a relentless rebounder, and a playmaker when needed. This adaptability makes him the glue that holds the Celtics together, ensuring their consistency as perennial contenders. Boston’s depth allows Tatum to thrive in a team-oriented system, even if it means sharing the spotlight with other stars on the roster.

The MVP Race and Tatum’s Role

Ironically, Tatum’s versatility might be the very thing that holds him back in MVP discussions. While his all-around brilliance makes him invaluable to Boston, other MVP candidates like Giannis Antetokounmpo often have a larger offensive burden and score more efficiently. This comparison can sometimes overshadow Tatum’s contributions. Yet, his ability to adapt to any role and still deliver elite performances cannot be understated.

4.) Victor Wembanyama’s Breakout Season: A Rising MVP Contender

At just 20 years old, Victor Wembanyama is making waves in the NBA and forcing his way into the MVP conversation. Averaging an impressive 25.6 points, 10.0 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 3.9 blocks per game while playing 32:51 minutes per night, Wembanyama has become a two-way powerhouse. His defensive presence is game-changing, deterring opponents from entering the paint and holding them to 13.7% worse shooting within six feet of the rim. With Wemby anchoring the defense, the Spurs have reached a top-five defensive rating.

Offensively, Wembanyama’s progression has been just as extraordinary. After a modest start to the season, averaging 18.3 points on 54.2% true shooting, he erupted with a 34-point game against the Kings and an incredible 50-point performance against the Wizards. Since then, his offensive output has surged to 29.6 points per game on an elite 63.3% true shooting.

His scoring efficiency is remarkable across all levels:

• Free throws: 86.4%
• At the rim: 79.4%
• In the paint: 64.8%
• Midrange: 40.4%
• Three-point shooting: 38.4%

Wembanyama is redefining what a modern big man can do, and his performances this season have cemented him as a rising star. It’s not a matter of if he’ll be at the center of the MVP conversation — it’s a matter of when.

3.) Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Leading the Charge for OKC

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has taken the NBA by storm this season. The Oklahoma City Thunder, led by SGA, are on pace to win 69 games—an astonishing feat considering their roster challenges. His impact is undeniable: with Shai on the floor, the Thunder dominate opponents, outscoring them by 16.7 points per 100 possessions. Without him, they drop to a league-average team.

Offensively, Gilgeous-Alexander has expanded his game, excelling in off-the-dribble threes and becoming a lethal catch-and-shoot threat. On defense, he’s equally remarkable, ranking among the league leaders in steals and blocks by a guard. His hustle, defensive versatility, and leadership have transformed OKC into a legitimate powerhouse. SGA’s two-way dominance and game-changing performances make him one of the top contenders for MVP.

2. ) Nikola Jokić – Denver Nuggets

Nikola Jokić, the two-time MVP and reigning Finals MVP, continues to showcase why he’s the heartbeat of the Denver Nuggets. This season, Jokić is averaging an impressive 30.7 points, 13 rebounds, and 9.7 assists per game while logging nearly 37 minutes on the floor. His ability to orchestrate the offense is unparalleled, blending precision passing with improved 3-point shooting to make him an unstoppable force.

Despite Denver’s injury struggles — including Aaron Gordon’s absence and Jamal Murray’s inconsistent play — Jokić has carried the team. Yet, this heavy offensive load has taken a toll on his defensive focus, as seen in moments like Anfernee Simons’ game-winning layup, where Jokić’s lack of defensive rotation stood out. In such a tight MVP race, those moments might influence voters.

Still, Jokić’s impact on Denver is undeniable. Without him, the Nuggets are a completely different team. If he can tighten up his defense and continue to dominate offensively, the MVP race could once again be his to lose.

1.) Giannis Antetokounmpo: The Bucks’ Relentless Force

Giannis Antetokounmpo continues to prove why he’s one of the most dominant players in the NBA. The Bucks’ early-season success, including their NBA Cup victory, was largely due to Giannis’ extraordinary play. Whether he’s attacking the rim, showcasing his improved midrange shot, or locking down opponents on defense, Giannis remains the heart and soul of Milwaukee. Giannis is also about to set an all time record in True Shooting Percentage.

Despite dealing with injuries and illnesses, Giannis has powered through adversity, willing his team to crucial victories during the NBA Cup in season tournament, securing an NBA Cup Championship over the Thunder and NBA Cup Finals MVP. His ability to impact both ends of the floor keeps him firmly in the MVP conversation. With the Bucks in contention, expect Giannis to make a strong push for his third MVP award.

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