NBA MVP Watch: Week 12
With the turn of the calendar year, the NBA finals will be here before you know it, meaning that the MVP watch is kicking into high gear. Some candidates are looking to hold their throne as most valuable player, while others are looking to solidify themselves as new, upcoming threats.
With that, let’s dive into the top players to watch.
Luka Doncic, Guard, Dallas Mavericks
After a tremendous feat of 60 points, 21 rebounds and 10 assists, Doncic has proven that he is the leading MVP candidate for this season. He’s led the Mavericks to 23-18 on the season, being fourth in the Western Conference.
Doncic is averaging 34 points per game, which leads the NBA. He also averages almost nine assists and rebounds per game, which puts him in the top 25 in each category. If Doncic’s domination continues, he will be a clear-cut winner for MVP this season.
Nikola Jokic, Center, Denver Nuggets
Jokic comes in at second in the MVP watch due to his impressive statistics, as well as his previous track record.
Jokic has won MVP in the previous two seasons and is looking to three-peat, which would make him the fourth player ever to do so. He’s been in the spotlight all year, leading the Nuggets to first in Western Conference at 27-13.
Jokic is currently averaging 25 points per game, 10.8 rebounds per game and almost 10 assists per game. These statistics, combined with the Nuggets’ record, make Jokic a force to be reckoned with in the remainder of the regular season and playoffs.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, Forward, Milwaukee Bucks
A.K.A. the “The Greek Freak,” Antetokounmpo has dominated the forward position for the past few seasons. After scoring 55 against the Wizards, Antetokounmpo has cooled off a little bit in his most recent three games.
However, Antetokounmpo averages 31.7 points per game, which is third in the NBA, 11.8 rebounds per game, but only five assists per game. The Bucks hold a record of 26-14 and are only a few games behind number one in the Eastern Conference.
Jayson Tatum, Forward, Boston Celtics
In his most recent games, Tatum has had impressive performances. The Celtics are on a roll with a three-game winning streak, looking to extend that against the Pelicans, which will be great competition for Tatum.
Tatum averages 30.8 points per game, eight rebounds per game and four assists per game. However, numbers do not show Tatum’s impressive game sense and playmaking abilities. The Celtics are 29-12 currently and look to continue to dominate the East.
Kevin Durant, Forward, Brooklyn Nets
The seasoned veteran, Kevin Durant, continues to prove why he is one of the greatest to ever do it. With over 15 seasons, Durant consistently wins and is one of the most well-rounded players in the NBA.
Durant averages just under 30 points per game, 6.5 rebounds per game and five assists per game. However, Durant leads the Nets to second in the Eastern Conference with a 27-13 record. If Durant has a commanding rest of the season, he can climb the MVP odds.
Nick Volpe is a second-year majoring in telecommunications. To contact him, please email nickvolpe16@gmail.com or njv5251@psu.edu.
