Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokić continues to lead the Kia MVP Ladder with his consistent triple-double performances. The top five rankings remain unchanged this week, highlighting Jokić's statistical dominance. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder stays at No. 2.
Nikola Jokić's steady production has kept him at No. 1 on the Kia MVP Ladder. The Denver Nuggets star has recorded 10 triple-doubles in 17 games this season, shooting at 62% efficiency. His season averages stand at 29.6 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 11.1 assists. Jokić has 174 career triple-doubles and is on pace to surpass Oscar Robertson's 181 for second place all-time. He has not missed a game this season, emphasizing his durability, and ranks No. 18 in the league with 1.6 steals per game.
Former coach Stan Van Gundy praised Jokić, saying, “He might be the best player in the history of the NBA.”
At No. 2, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder averages 32.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.6 assists. He has been efficient, with fewer than two turnovers per game, and often secures leads early, allowing rest in the fourth quarter. The Thunder are operating without Jalen Williams, who is expected to debut soon.
Luka Dončić ranks third for the Los Angeles Lakers, posting 35.2 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 9.2 assists. He recently scored 43 points in a near triple-double against the Clippers and has more 40-point games this season than any player.
Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks is No. 4, with 31.2 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 6.8 assists before his adductor injury. He has missed six of the Bucks' 19 games, impacting their Eastern Conference standing.
Cade Cunningham rounds out the top five for the Detroit Pistons at 28.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 9.3 assists. He scored 42 points in a close loss to the Boston Celtics, ending Detroit's 13-game win streak. In games he has played, the Pistons are 9-1.
The next five include Victor Wembanyama (Spurs), Donovan Mitchell (Cavaliers), Tyrese Maxey (76ers), Alperen Şengün (Rockets), and Jalen Johnson (Hawks). Additional players mentioned are Jalen Brunson (Knicks), Stephen Curry (Warriors), Anthony Edwards (Timberwolves), Brandon Ingram (Raptors), and Austin Reaves (Lakers). Maxey notably joined Wilt Chamberlain as only the second 76ers player with 50 points and nine assists in a game.
An upcoming matchup features Gilgeous-Alexander and Curry when the Thunder visit the Warriors.