2026 NBA Player Poll: MVP Contenders SGA, Jokić, and Dončić Revealed

The 2026 NBA Player Poll has unveiled some intriguing insights into the race for the Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the 2025-26 season. This annual survey has garnered participation from a record 161 players, representing about one-third of the league. The results shine a light on the top contenders, showcasing the players’ perspective on who deserves the prestigious Michael Jordan Trophy.

Key MVP Contenders: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokić, and Luka Dončić

Leading the pack in this year’s poll is Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He dominated the voting, nearly doubling the support of his closest competitor, Nikola Jokić of the Denver Nuggets. Gilgeous-Alexander is currently second in league scoring, averaging 31.1 points per game with an impressive shooting percentage of 55.3.

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: 31.1 points, 6.6 assists, 4.3 rebounds, 1.4 steals
• Nikola Jokić: 27.8 points, 12.9 rebounds, 10.9 assists
• Luka Dončić: 33.5 points, 8.3 assists, 7.7 rebounds

The Rise of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

At just 27 years old, Gilgeous-Alexander has solidified his status as a top player. His remarkable consistency makes him a frontrunner for MVP. He has achieved a historic streak of 140 consecutive games with over 20 points, surpassing Wilt Chamberlain’s record. This season, he also recorded averages that contributed significantly to the Thunder’s top-ranked offense and the best record in the league (64-16).

One anonymous player praised him, stating, “He’s the best player on the best team.” Gilgeous-Alexander managed all this without his essential teammate, Jalen Williams, who missed 47 games due to injuries.

Nikola Jokić’s Continual Brilliance

Nikola Jokić’s performance remains exceptional. The 31-year-old is not only a scoring threat but also excels in rebounding and assists. His averages of 27.8 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 10.9 assists highlight his all-around game. Jokić aims to become the first player since Wilt Chamberlain in 1968 to lead the league in both assists and rebounds in the same season.

Luka Dončić’s Spectacular Season

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Dončić has also made a compelling case for MVP. Averaging 33.5 points, he leads the league in scoring while contributing significantly in assists and rebounds. Despite injuries to key teammates like Austin Reaves, his performance has been pivotal for the team’s success.

One of his peers remarked on Dončić’s ability to perform well despite challenges, commenting, “What he’s done with the team is really ridiculous.”

Overview of Player Poll Results

The results of the 2026 NBA Player Poll will continue to unfold in the coming weeks. This timely survey comes just as a panel of 100 writers and broadcasters prepares to finalize their ballots for the MVP award. The players’ votes typically provide a strong indicator of the eventual winner, and this year’s insights reflect not just individual achievements but also the overall depth of talent in the league.

This year’s MVP race is shaping up to be one for the ages, with standout performances highlighting the talent across the NBA. As the season progresses, the competition remains fierce, and the quest for the MVP crown continues.