What's Happening?
NBA general managers have expressed strong confidence in Nikola Jokic winning his fourth MVP award in the upcoming 2025-26 season. According to the 24th annual GM survey conducted by John Schuhmann of NBA.com, Jokic received 67% of the vote for MVP, highlighting his dominance as the league's best center, best international player, and best passer. Additionally, the Oklahoma City Thunder are favored by 80% of GMs to repeat as NBA champions, with the Cavaliers and Nuggets tied for second at 7% each. This survey reflects the high expectations for Jokic and the Thunder, despite previous predictions that saw the Boston Celtics favored last year but ultimately eliminated in the second round.
Why It's Important?
The survey results underscore the significant impact Nikola Jokic has on the NBA, both as an individual player and as a key figure for the Denver Nuggets. His potential fourth MVP win would further solidify his status as one of the league's top talents, influencing team strategies and player valuations. The Thunder's favored status to repeat as champions highlights their strong roster and strategic prowess, which could affect team dynamics and competitive strategies across the league. These predictions also set the stage for potential shifts in team investments and player trades as franchises aim to compete with the Thunder and capitalize on Jokic's influence.
What's Next?
As the season progresses, teams will likely adjust their strategies to counter the strengths of the Thunder and Jokic. The Nuggets may focus on leveraging Jokic's skills to secure a championship run, while other teams might explore trades or tactical changes to enhance their competitiveness. The survey's insights could prompt discussions among team executives regarding roster adjustments and long-term planning, especially for teams like the Cavaliers and Rockets, who are seen as potential contenders. The evolving dynamics will be closely watched by fans and analysts, potentially influencing betting markets and media narratives.
Beyond the Headlines
The survey results also highlight broader trends in the NBA, such as the increasing recognition of international players like Jokic and Victor Wembanyama, who was voted as the best player to build a franchise around. This reflects the league's growing global influence and the importance of versatile, multi-skilled players in modern basketball. Additionally, the focus on athleticism and versatility, as seen with Amen Thompson, suggests a shift towards valuing players who can adapt to various roles and contribute across different aspects of the game.
