What are Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s chances of winning the NBA’s MVP award?

Mark Daigneault, the coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder, has joined a growing number of voices who believe Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the outright candidate for this year’s Most Valuable Player award. Shai is one of the top contenders for the prestigious award, along with Nikola Jokić and Luka Dončić.

Daigneault said, “There is not a night where I don’t feel like we have the best player on the floor. We’re a top-five defense and top-five offense. He’s a two-end player who contributes to both of those things.”

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s case

Gilgeous-Alexander is currently averaging 30.1 points, 6.2 assists, and 2 steals per game, the highest in the league. Oklahoma City has made the playoffs for the first time since 2020 and is a top seed for only the second time since moving from Seattle. The last time they were on top of the Western Conference was in 2013, led by Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and Serge Ibaka.

Daigneault praised Gilgeous-Alexander’s consistency, composure, and confidence, which he said were contagious on one of the youngest teams in the league. He added, “When you look at what he did this year, what seeds he planted in previous years, there’s no one I’d rather have on our team than him.”

In just two years, the Thunder went from a team with 24 wins to the first seed in the Western Conference, and Gilgeous-Alexander, at 25, is the oldest starter. Gilgeous-Alexander’s presence has elevated the performance of his teammates, allowing them to exceed expectations and accelerate their development. Players like Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams, and Josh Giddey have thrived under his guidance.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP odds

In recent weeks, Gilgeous-Alexander’s odds of winning the MVP award have seen a significant uptick, with pundits and sportsbooks showing a growing belief that he could be a serious contender. His odds have lowered from +400 to +250, only higher than last year’s Finals MVP and champion Nikola Jokic, who has the lowest odds at -160.

What’s truly impressive about Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP candidacy is his consistent ability to defy expectations. Many doubted his ability to consistently put up impressive numbers, especially in the face of tough defensive schemes. Yet, he has repeatedly proven the doubters wrong by delivering standout performances night in and night out.