Three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokić remains a serious contender for the 2025 MVP award despite a significant injury setback. The Denver Nuggets‘ star missed 16 games after a hyperextended left knee injury in December, but he is back on the court playing consecutive games. With the MVP eligibility rule requiring at least 65 games played, Jokić is now limited to only one more missed game if he hopes to claim the prestigious honor this season.
Current Standings Among MVP Favorites
Before his injury, Jokić was the leading favorite to win the MVP award but was temporarily removed from the odds board during his absence. Since his return, the Nuggets center has climbed back to second place in the latest DraftKings Sportsbook odds as of February 9. His current odds stand at +320, placing him behind Oklahoma City Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who holds the favorite spot at -230.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP Push and Injury Concerns
Gilgeous-Alexander is having a stellar season, ranking second in the league with an average of 31.8 points per game, while leading the Thunder to the NBA’s best record. He has been remarkable with a streak of 121 consecutive 20-point games, second only to Wilt Chamberlain’s historic 126. However, Gilgeous-Alexander is currently sidelined due to an abdominal strain and is expected to be re-evaluated following the All-Star break, leaving some uncertainty around his MVP chances.
Jokić’s Impact on the Nuggets Since Return
Since returning from injury, Jokić has played five straight games, with Denver posting a 2-3 record in that span. Highlighting his exceptional all-around game, he recently surpassed Oscar Robertson for the second-most triple-doubles in NBA history. This season, Jokić is averaging 28.9 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 10.7 assists per game, reinforcing his value in the MVP race despite the Nuggets’ mixed results during his comeback.
Other Top MVP Contenders to Watch
Luka Dončić of the Los Angeles Lakers stands at +2000 odds and had been the clear second choice before Jokić’s return. Dončić leads the league in scoring with an average of 32.8 points and has recorded eight 40-point games this season, with the Lakers winning six of those contests. Additionally, Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons also holds +2000 odds. Cunningham has been instrumental in the Pistons’ strong position as the second-best team in the NBA and is posting averages of 25.3 points and 9.8 assists per game.
The Stakes and What Lies Ahead
Nikola Jokić’s comeback to MVP contention injects renewed excitement into the race, especially with the regular season winding down and eligibility requirements tightening. His ability to maintain health and help lead the Nuggets will be critical in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, Gilgeous-Alexander’s recovery and performance after the All-Star break will also heavily influence how the odds evolve. Fans and analysts alike remain on edge as these elite players vie for one of the league’s most prestigious awards.
“Big Honey is back. After missing 16 games due to injury, Jokić is back in the mix, and has played five straight games for the Nuggets.” – DraftKings Sportsbook Analyst
“SGA is second in the NBA in scoring (31.8), and his Thunder have the best record in the NBA. He is also in the midst of a remarkable streak of 121 consecutive 20-point games, the second-most in NBA history, trailing only Wilt Chamberlain (126).” – Sports Reporter
