As the 2024-25 NBA season unfolds in chaotic fashion, Nikola Jokic seems entirely unconcerned with the MVP race. Despite being the reigning MVP and a three-time winner in the last four years, Jokic has consistently dismissed individual accolades in favor of focusing on the team.

Jokic’s primary concern is the Nuggets’ performance, as he shoulders even more responsibility this season due to a weaker supporting cast. His efforts have kept Denver competitive, with a solid 19-13 record, just two games behind the second seed in the loss column, despite the team’s flaws and early struggles.

Remarkably, Jokic is averaging career-best numbers, posting an astonishing 30.7 points, 13.0 rebounds, 9.7 assists, 2.2 three-pointers, and 1.7 steals per game while shooting 49.2% from deep. These stats, paired with the Nuggets’ surprising record, have positioned Jokic as a strong contender for another MVP.

However, not everyone sees him as the front-runner. After Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dropped 40 points to help the Thunder beat the Timberwolves, Anthony Edwards labeled SGA the “MVP of the NBA,” adding that he hopes Gilgeous-Alexander wins this year and even deserved it last season.

Edwards’ unexpected praise for a rival contrasts sharply with his usual confidence and swagger. While it may have been an off-the-cuff remark, it also implied subtle doubt about Jokic’s chances to win the award again. Jokic likely won’t notice or care, but comments like this could fuel the Nuggets’ motivation as they aim to prove their critics wrong.