The 2025-26 NBA Season: A Year of High Stakes and Unfulfilled Potential
The 2025-26 NBA season has been one of the most exciting in recent years, marked by incredible performances and fierce competition for top honors. Among the many accolades up for grabs, the MVP award has been a focal point, with several standout players vying for recognition. Despite his efforts, Luka Doncic, the Los Angeles Lakers’ superstar, has officially been eliminated from the running.
This season has been particularly special for Doncic. After undergoing a dramatic physical transformation during the offseason, he was expected to deliver an MVP-caliber performance. As the primary option for the Lakers, he quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier offensive talents. His contributions were undeniable, as he secured the scoring title with an impressive average of 33.5 points per game, while also posting 7.7 rebounds and 8.3 assists per contest. His shooting percentages were equally impressive, with a 47.6% field goal accuracy and a 36.6% three-point shooting rate.
Given his impact on the court and the Lakers’ strong 53-29 record (placing them fourth in the Western Conference), Doncic’s chances of winning the MVP award appeared solid. His performance in March, which included a series of explosive outings, seemed to further bolster his case. Unfortunately, this momentum did not translate into a stronger position in the race.
Despite his best efforts, Doncic found himself slipping down the MVP rankings. A hamstring injury eventually forced him to sit out the remainder of the regular season, putting him at risk of missing out on all end-of-season awards due to the NBA’s 65-game eligibility criteria. Although his appeal for eligibility was eventually accepted, the situation still feels unfortunate.
However, when looking at the three MVP finalists, it becomes clear that their cases were significantly stronger.
The Stronger Contenders
Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs has emerged as the most dominant two-way player in the league this season. On offense, he consistently dominates, averaging 25.0 points and 11.1 rebounds per game. Additionally, he leads the league in blocks with an impressive 3.1 per game, making him a strong candidate for the Defensive Player of the Year award as well.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder has continued to impress after a stellar MVP campaign last season. This year, he has led his team to a league-best 64-18 record, averaging 31.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game. His consistency and leadership have made him a formidable contender.
Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets has returned to the MVP conversation after an outstanding season. With averages of 27.7 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 10.7 assists per game, Jokic has arguably been the best player in the NBA. He finished the season as the statistical leader in two categories—rebounds and assists—and continues to solidify his reputation as a perennial MVP candidate.
While the outcome remains debatable, the achievements of these three finalists make Doncic’s elimination from the race slightly more understandable. Still, considering the season he had, it’s clear that Doncic will be disappointed with the result.
