(Photo : Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – Jayson Tatum (#0) of the Boston Celtics defends Giannis Antetokounmpo (#34) of the Milwaukee Bucks throughout the second half at TD Garden on November 22, 2023 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Celtics defeat the Bucks 119-116.
The 2023-24 NBA Most Valuable Player race has predominantly formed right into a three-way competitors involving Denver Nuggets middle Nikola Jokic, Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic.
While the reigning MVP, Philadelphia 76ers middle Joel Embiid, was initially a significant frontrunner, his candidacy has been disqualified as a consequence of lacking a number of video games following a meniscus damage.
The league launched a brand new criterion this season, mandating {that a} participant should take part in a minimal of 65 video games, logging at the very least 20 minutes in every, to be eligible for main awards such because the Most Valuable Player, Defensive Player of the Year, Most Improved Player, in addition to the All-NBA, and All-Defensive Teams.
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Other NBA gamers who deserve extra MVP love
1. Domantas Sabonis
Sabonis not solely stands out as an under-the-radar MVP candidate but additionally skilled probably the most important All-Star snubs in NBA historical past when he was left off the Western Conference All-Stars roster earlier this month within the exhibition recreation held in Indiana.
Presently main the league in triple-doubles with 21 and averaging a powerful 13.2 boards per recreation, he has turn out to be the Kings’ most vital participant as they attempt to maneuver out of the play-in vary.
2. Donovan Mitchell
The Cavs are presently experiencing a powerful run, securing a 16-4 file of their final 20 video games and unexpectedly claiming the second spot within the Eastern Conference.
Star Donovan Mitchell leads this cost and has been instrumental, with averages of 28.2 factors, 6.2 assists, and 5.4 rebounds in 46 video games this season.
3. Jayson Tatum
Celtics star Jayson Tatum appears oddly missed in MVP discussions, although the Celtics are main the Eastern Conference and boast one of the best file in your complete NBA.
Traditionally, one of the best participant on the staff with one of the best file would obtain consideration, however the 25-year-old has been missed regardless of spectacular averages of 27.0 factors, 8.5 rebounds, and 4.9 assists in 55 video games.
4. Anthony Edwards
The Minnesota Timberwolves have proven important enchancment from the earlier season, now standing as the highest staff within the Western Conference with one of the best file at 42-17 after being the eighth seed final 12 months with a 42-40 slate.
Anthony Edwards has been the standout participant for them, averaging 26.6 factors, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.2 assists in 56 video games.
However, regardless of his spectacular season, the clamor for him to contend for the league’s prime particular person honor has been comparatively and surprisingly muted.
5. Giannis Antetokounmpo
Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo has constantly delivered unbelievable numbers all through the years, showcasing himself as among the finest gamers on the planet. However, his MVP marketing campaign has not garnered a lot consideration as a result of Bucks’ early-season struggles.
Despite this, with spectacular averages of 30.8 factors, 11.3 rebounds, 6.4 assists, and 1.3 steals, he may emerge as a darkish horse for the award, particularly contemplating the Bucks’ fast enchancment underneath new coach Doc Rivers.
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