MVP cases for (and against) Nikola Jokic, Victor Wembanyama, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Luka Doncic

MVP cases for (and against) Nikola Jokic, Victor Wembanyama, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Luka Doncic originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here . The 2026 NBA MVP race is shaping up to be the closest one that we've seen in a while.

There are four legitimate contenders that have separated themselves from the rest of the pack. Nikola Jokic is a triple-double machine and maybe having the best offensive season ever. Luka Doncic has carried the Lakers beyond what anyone thought they could do.

Victor Wembanyama has already arrived, doing things that nobody else can on a nightly basis. And Shai Gilgeous-Alexander just keeps winning. It's impossible to pick the best among that four-man group.

All of them have things that they do the best, and all have small imperfections that can be used against them. Here are the strongest talking points for and against each. SN's NBA HQ: Live NBA scores | Updated NBA standings | Full NBA schedule Nikola Jokic's MVP case Talking points for Jokic Jokic has already won this award three times.