Determining Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Path to 2025-26 MVP
As Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander enters the 2025-26 NBA season, he’s no longer an undiscovered gem. After his stellar performance in the 2024-25 season, which saw him finish as a runner-up for the MVP award, it’s clear that he has laid the groundwork for being a serious candidate for the prestigious title in the coming seasons. Gilgeous-Alexander’s rise can be attributed to an array of factors, including his scoring efficiency, overall team performance, and consistency on the court.
The Stellar 2024-25 Season
During the 2024-25 season, Gilgeous-Alexander achieved remarkable statistical milestones. His points per 100 possessions increased significantly, ranking him first among qualified players with 45.9 points—an increase from a commendable 42.4 the previous season. This jump in efficiency was complemented by a notable improvement in his on-court net rating, soaring from +11.9 to an impressive +16.9. These figures underscore not just his individual skill but also his impact on the team’s overall success.
The Thunder finished the season as the top seed in the Western Conference, a notable achievement that bolstered his MVP credentials. Gilgeous-Alexander played in 76 of 82 games, showcasing his durability and commitment, which are essential qualities for any MVP candidate.
Competition and Recognition
Despite Gilgeous-Alexander’s laudable season, he faced stiff competition from Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic, who took home the MVP award. Jokic’s all-around game—characterized by an efficient triple-double average—secured him the accolade, as he received 79 first-place votes over Gilgeous-Alexander’s 15. It’s worth noting that while both players had stellar seasons, Jokic’s impact metrics were more impressive, which can often tip the scales in MVP debates.
However, in the head-to-head race for the MVP, the following season promised to be even more exciting. With Gilgeous-Alexander having garnered 71 first-place votes compared to Jokic’s 29 in their most recent encounters, it signals an upward trajectory for the young superstar.
Historical Comparisons
When we contextualize Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance with historical MVP winners, he ranks favorably among the last decade’s best. His numbers align closely with notable past recipients—only Joel Embiid in 2022-23 averaged more points per 100 possessions (47.4), and only Stephen Curry in 2015-16 recorded a higher on-court net rating (+18.0).
These statistics demonstrate that Gilgeous-Alexander is not merely excelling in isolation but performing at a level historically associated with MVP winners. Over the last three seasons, he’s averaged 43.5 points per 100 possessions with a +10.8 net rating, an impressive feat that aligns well with long-term contenders.
Factors Influencing Future MVP Candidacy
Injury Durability: One primary factor in determining Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP candidacy is his health. Remaining injury-free, as he has shown in the recent seasons, is integral to maintaining high performance.
Team Success: Success on the court is vital for MVP candidacy. If the Thunder can continue to build on their momentum and secure a stellar record, it will enhance Gilgeous-Alexander’s chances. NBA history shows that the MVP often comes from a winning team, and the Thunder’s improvement in performance—from 11 more wins last season—needs to either match or exceed in the upcoming season.
- Statistical Churn: For a player to receive the MVP award in consecutive years, they must either improve their individual stats or lead their team deeper into playoffs. Gilgeous-Alexander has already reached the upper echelons of performance; to compete for the MVP prize again, he might need to enhance his metrics.
Challenges Ahead
However, the road to the MVP award is fraught with challenges. NBA history has shown that recent MVPs face heightened scrutiny in their subsequent seasons. As previous champions have demonstrated, consistently improving in one of the vital statistical categories—be it points per game, efficiency metrics, or team wins—is often necessary for repeat success. Gilgeous-Alexander’s path will require him to not only sustain his current output but to push further for improvement.
Additionally, fierce competition looms. Established stars like Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Luka Doncic pose significant threats, each bringing a unique skill set to their respective teams that could overshadow Gilgeous-Alexander’s achievements.
Closing Thoughts
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander stands as a formidable candidate for the 2025-26 MVP award. His improvements over the last season and solidified status as a top-tier player lend credence to his potential for future accolades. Factors such as health, team success, and individual performance metrics will ultimately dictate his chances.
For basketball fans and analysts alike, observing Gilgeous-Alexander’s journey will be fascinating. His commitment to the game, combined with his burgeoning skillset, positions him not merely as a title contender but as a likely future face of the franchise. As the Oklahoma City Thunder aim for greater heights, the narrative surrounding Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will undoubtedly be a pivotal subplot in the unfolding drama of the NBA. Whether he secures the MVP title in the upcoming season or not, he has already carved his name into the conversation, ensuring that the basketball world will be keeping a close watch on his ascent.
