The NBA playoffs have reached a thrilling stage, with the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder set to face off in Game 7. The winner will advance to the Western Conference Finals, but the real question on everyone’s mind is: should the Game 7 winner take home the MVP award? Let’s examine the cases for both Nikola Jokić and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Nikola Jokić’s Case
Unparalleled Playmaking: Jokić is a master playmaker, averaging 9.7 assists per game, which leads all centers and rivals some of the league’s best point guards.
-Dominant Scoring: Jokić is a scoring savant, averaging 30.7 points per game, with the ability to score in the post, mid-range, and beyond the arc.
– *Rebounding Prowess*: Jokić dominates the boards, grabbing 13 rebounds per game, which is a cornerstone of Denver’s success.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Case
-Elite Scoring: Gilgeous-Alexander is a dynamic scorer, averaging 31.3 points per game, with the ability to fill it up from all three levels.
Defensive Impact: Gilgeous-Alexander is a nightmare for opposing ball handlers, with 2 steals and 1.2 blocks per game, showcasing his defensive prowess.
-Team Success: The Thunder have been dominant all season, with a Western Conference-best 28-5 record, largely thanks to Gilgeous-Alexander’s leadership.¹
Comparison and Conclusion
Both players have impressive resumes, but the question remains: should the Game 7 winner take home the MVP award? While it’s tempting to reward the winner, MVP voting is typically based on regular-season performance. However, a decisive Game 7 performance could cement either player’s case as the best in the league.
In a recent comparison, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads Nikola Jokić in some key categories, including points per game, steals, blocks, and win shares. However, Jokić edges Gilgeous-Alexander in rebounding, assists, and shooting efficiency.
Ultimately, the MVP award should be based on a player’s overall performance throughout the season, not just one game. Nevertheless, Game 7 will undoubtedly be a defining moment for both players, and the winner’s performance could have a lasting impact on their legacy.
