Nikola Jokic emerges as a top contender, challenging Durant and Embiid on the Kia MVP Board.
The Kia MVP race is heating up as the 2024-25 NBA season progresses, and Nikola Jokic is once again making a strong case for the coveted title. While Kevin Durant and Joel Embiid have long been considered front-runners, the reigning NBA Finals MVP, Jokic, is proving that his consistency, playmaking, and leadership make him a serious contender to take home another MVP award.
Let’s take a closer look at how Nikola Jokic is challenging Durant and Embiid on the Kia MVP Board and why he might be the one to win it all.
Jokic’s Dominance: Why He’s a Top Kia MVP Contender
Nikola Jokic is no stranger to the MVP conversation. The Denver Nuggets star has already won the award twice (2021 and 2022), and his impressive performances this season have put him back in the spotlight.
What makes Jokic stand out in this year’s race is his all-around game. He’s not just a dominant scorer; he’s also an elite passer, rebounder, and defender. His ability to control the pace of the game and make his teammates better is unparalleled, making him one of the most valuable players in the league.
Through January, Jokic is averaging
26.4 points per game
11.8 rebounds per game
9.9 assists per game
These near triple-double numbers have made Jokic a force to be reckoned with and a top challenger to Kevin Durant and Joel Embiid.
Durant and Embiid: Tough Competition for Joking
While Jokic is making waves, Kevin Durant and Joel Embiid are still formidable opponents in the Kia MVP race.
Kevin Durant, now leading the Phoenix Suns, has been playing at an elite level. Known for his scoring ability, Durant is averaging over 30 points per game and continues to be one of the most reliable offensive players in the league. His leadership has helped the Suns become one of the top teams in the Western Conference, making his case for MVP stronger.
On the other hand, Joel Embiid, the reigning 2023-24 MVP, is also in the mix. The Philadelphia 76ers center remains a dominant presence in the paint, with 29.6 points and 11.2 rebounds per game. His ability to control both ends of the court makes him a serious threat to repeat as MVP.
Despite their strong performances, Jokic has a unique edge in the race due to his versatility and ability to impact every aspect of the game.
What Sets Nikola Jokic Apart from Durant and Embiid?
While Durant and Embiid excel in specific areas, Jokic‘s all-around game sets him apart.
Unlike most centers, Jokic plays the role of a point center, orchestrating the Nuggets’ offense. His ability to find open teammates with pinpoint passes makes him one of the best playmakers in the league, a rare skill for a player of his size.
This playmaking ability has been crucial for Denver’s success. The Nuggets are currently one of the top teams in the Western Conference, largely due to Jokic’s leadership and unselfish style of play.
One of the biggest arguments for Jokic in the MVP race is his consistency. While Durant and Embiid have had their fair share of injuries and off games, Jokic has been a model of reliability.
His shooting efficiency is also noteworthy. Jokic is shooting over 60% from the field, including 40% from three-point range, making him one of the most efficient players in the league.
The MVP award isn’t just about individual stats—it’s also about how much a player impacts their team’s success. Jokic has been the heart and soul of the Denver Nuggets, leading them to a championship last season and keeping them in contention this year.
His leadership on and off the court has been a major factor in the Nuggets’ continued success, making his case for MVP even stronger.
What Do Analysts Say About Jokic’s MVP Chances?
Many analysts believe that Nikola Jokic is in prime position to win his third MVP award. His combination of versatility, consistency, and leadership makes him a unique player in the current NBA landscape.
Several sports commentators have pointed out that while Durant and Embiid are great scorers, Jokic’s all-around impact gives him an edge in the MVP race. His ability to control the game on multiple levels—scoring, rebounding, and assisting—is something that few players can match.
Conclusion: Can Nikola Jokic beat Durant and Embiid for MVP?
The battle for the Kia MVP is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent years, with Nikola Jokic, Kevin Durant, and Joel Embiid all making strong cases.
While Durant continues to dazzle with his scoring prowess and Embiid dominates in the paint, Jokic‘s all-around game, leadership, and consistency make him a top contender.
As the season progresses, Jokic will need to maintain his impressive form and keep the Denver Nuggets in championship contention to secure his spot at the top of the Kia MVP Board. If he does, there’s no doubt that Nikola Jokic could walk away with his third MVP award, solidifying his status as one of the greatest players of this era.
