After the Oklahoma City Thunder’s narrow 129-126 win over the Denver Nuggets, many fans believed the MVP race was all but decided in favor of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who clinched the game with a critical three-pointer and matched Wilt Chamberlain’s record for consecutive 20-point games. However, ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith argues on First Take that Boston Celtics’ star Jaylen Brown still has a solid chance to claim the Jaylen Brown MVP race title.
Stephen A. Smith’s Perspective on Brown’s MVP Candidacy
Smith outlined his viewpoint on Tuesday, noting the Celtics’ upcoming difficult road tests against San Antonio and Oklahoma City. He emphasized Brown’s pivotal role on the team, especially with the Celtics often playing without Jayson Tatum, who is still regaining full form. Smith pointed out the contrast between Brown and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, alluding to Alexander’s already impressive career achievements but highlighting Brown’s rising importance as Boston’s lead contributor.
“Jaylen Brown is a top two candidate for League MVP. There are two road games coming up this week at San Antonio and then against Shea Butter and Oklahoma City. Now, Jaylen Brown, that’s gonna go a long way towards us looking at…you see, we don’t have to look at Shea butter. Because when you look at Shea butter, he’s already League MVP. He’s already an NBA Finals MVP. He’s already an NBA champion. So is Jaylen Brown, but Jaylen Brown was that as a number two option. You understand now, even though you got Tatum back, he’s still feeling his way back. It’s still you, Jaylen Brown. Where you roll up into San Antonio, when you roll up in the Oklahoma City, what you going to do?”
– Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Analyst
Brown’s Strong Regular Season And Statistical Performance
Jaylen Brown has emerged as a leading force for the Celtics in 57 games, posting averages of 28.7 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per contest, while providing solid perimeter defense with a steal per game. His shooting efficiency includes a 48% field goal rate and nearly 35% from three-point range. Brown’s consistent play has helped Boston remain competitive even during stretches without their other star, Jayson Tatum.
Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continues to lead the Thunder through a challenging season marked by injuries to key teammates, making his steady production all the more impressive. He currently tops ClutchPoints Senior NBA Reporter Brett Siegel’s MVP rankings, with Brown positioned fifth, trailing Cade Cunningham, Victor Wembanyama, and Nikola Jokic.
Implications of the Upcoming Celtics-Thunder Clash
The Celtics and Thunder are set to face each other on Thursday in a game that carries heavy implications for the MVP race and could serve as a preview of a potential NBA Finals matchup. With both superstars seeking to solidify their case before the playoffs, the contest will reveal which player exerts greater leadership and impact under pressure.
Jaylen Brown’s performance in this high-stakes environment will be crucial for his bid to challenge Gilgeous-Alexander’s current lead and influence voters considering the Jaylen Brown MVP race narrative. How Brown navigates these road games and matches up against top contenders may ultimately determine the award’s recipient this season.
.@stephenasmith says the MVP can still be won by Jaylen Brown 👀 pic.twitter.com/hUjx7ssHDJ
— First Take (@FirstTake) March 10, 2026
