Sun May 11 21:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Thunder’s Gilgeous-Alexander Edges Out Jokic in Tight MVP Race, Setting Up Epic Playoffs Clash
**DENVER, CO** – The NBA Playoffs have thrown together two of the league’s biggest stars and top MVP candidates in a highly anticipated second-round matchup: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder and Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets. The clash pits the regular season’s top two MVP contenders against each other, culminating a season-long battle for the coveted award.
Gilgeous-Alexander led the remarkably successful Thunder to a league-best 68 wins, averaging an impressive 32.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game. Jokic, meanwhile, delivered arguably his best statistical season, averaging a triple-double with 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game, solidifying his place as a perennial MVP contender. Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo also finished as an MVP finalist.
While the MVP award is a regular-season accolade, the playoff series adds a significant layer of intensity to their rivalry. ESPN’s final MVP straw poll, which has accurately predicted the winner in the past five seasons, suggests a narrow victory for Gilgeous-Alexander, securing 77 out of 100 first-place votes. However, Jokic’s historically strong season, featuring top-three rankings in points, rebounds, and assists, makes the race exceptionally close. Former Nuggets coach Michael Malone even boldly proclaimed Jokic the superior player, regardless of past MVP wins.
The intense competition between these two exceptional players highlights the exceptional talent in the NBA this season and promises a thrilling playoff series. The outcome of their Western Conference showdown will undoubtedly impact the narrative surrounding the MVP race, regardless of the official award announcement.
First Piper 