As of January 31, 2026, the NBA MVP race is beginning to separate into clear tiers, with elite production, team success, and availability all playing decisive roles. This updated MVP ladder reflects not just raw statistics, but sustained impact, recent momentum, and how each star has carried their team through the heart of the season. With injuries, eligibility thresholds, and shifting standings in play, the race remains fluid despite a defined frontrunner.
1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander — Oklahoma City Thunder
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) in the fourth quarter against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
Last week’s ranking: No. 1
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Season stats: 32.0 PTS, 4.4 REB, 6.2 AST
Narrative: Shai remains the anchor of the Thunder’s MVP case and the reigning frontrunner in this repeat bid. He’s been delivering elite scoring night after night while guiding OKC to one of the league’s best records — his efficiency and leadership underpin the Thunder’s identity. A 47-point explosion earlier in the week reminded the league that he can tilt games at will, even in a loss. With the Thunder positioned as a true Western contender, Gilgeous-Alexander’s clutch scoring and quiet defensive growth only strengthen his resume.
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2. Luka Doncic — Los Angeles Lakers
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) during the second quarter against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Last week’s ranking: No. 3
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Season stats: 33.6 PTS, 8.7 REB, 7.7 AST
Narrative: Luka’s ascent to No. 2 reflects one of the most prolific offensive seasons in recent memory. He leads the NBA in scoring and is among the top guards in both assists and rebounding — a true triple-threat. Over his last several games, he’s posted a remarkable string of all-around efforts, including a 46-point barrage that helped vault the Lakers forward. If Denver’s Jokic slips further due to eligibility issues, Dončić could realistically push Gilgeous-Alexander for the top spot as the Lakers improve their standing.
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3. Nikola Jokic — Denver Nuggets
Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) before the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Ball Arena. Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
Last week’s ranking: No. 2
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Season stats: 29.6 PTS, 12.2 REB, 11.0 AST
Narrative: Even with recent injury setbacks, Jokić remains one of the most statistically dominant players in the NBA — averaging a triple-double is simply “Joker being Joker.” His best single-game efforts still overwhelm most of his MVP rivals, and his all-around impact on Denver’s success is unquestioned. However, the looming 65-game minimum for award eligibility places his candidacy in a precarious spot; any further missed games could remove him from the Ladder entirely. If he stays healthy and eligible after his return, he’ll remain a perennial threat on both ends.
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4. Victor Wembanyama — San Antonio Spurs
San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) pumps his fist in the second half against the Orlando Magic at Frost Bank Center. Credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images
Last week’s ranking: No. 4
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Season stats: 24.3 PTS, 11.2 REB, 2.7 BLK
Narrative: Wembanyama’s unique two-way skill set makes him elite even on nights when shooting isn’t falling. His rim protection and offensive creativity have grown markedly, and a recent 28-point, 16-rebound demonstration reminded the league of his superstar potential. Spurs success is tightly coupled with his availability and minutes, which makes continued growth essential. At just 21, his blend of shot-blocking and scoring could vault him even higher with better team results.
5. Jaylen Brown — Boston Celtics
Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) controls the ball while Milwaukee Bucks guard Ryan Rollins (13) defends during the second half at TD Garden. Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images
Last week’s ranking: No. 6
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Season stats: 29.4 PTS, 6.8 REB, 4.9 AST
Narrative: Brown has emerged as the Celtics’ go-to star in Tatum’s absence, showcasing career highs across multiple categories. His efficiency and scoring volume have been critical to Boston staying afloat in a competitive Eastern Conference. Brown’s peripheral stats — rebounds, assists, defensive versatility — add to his case in ways that traditional numbers sometimes undervalue. If the Celtics secure a top seed, Brown’s MVP stock will benefit even more.
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6. Cade Cunningham — Detroit Pistons
Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) dribbles defended by Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Saraf (77) in the second half at Little Caesars Arena. Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Last week’s ranking: 7
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Narrative: Cunningham continues to elevate the Pistons with his elite distribution and scoring creativity — one of the most complete offensive point-guard seasons in the league. Detroit’s surprising success is tightly linked to his ability to orchestrate both pick-and-roll depth and spot scoring when needed. While not as flashy on the stat sheet as others above him, Cunningham’s impact lies in efficiency and team trajectory. Sustained production in crunch time could make him a sleeper MVP candidate down the stretch.
7. Donovan Mitchell — Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) stands during the singing of the national anthem before a game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center. Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images
Last week’s ranking: not ranked
Narrative: Mitchell’s scoring and leadership remain the Cavs’ central pillars amid a tumultuous season. He’s posting career-level numbers and keeping Cleveland competitive even when roster support fluctuates. That consistency and volume, paired with his All-Star nod, underline a strong case for MVP consideration. If the Cavaliers continue to outperform expectations, Mitchell’s narrative gains gravitas.
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8. Tyrese Maxey — Philadelphia 76ers
Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey (0) reacts to his teams three pointer against the New Orleans Pelicans during the fourth quarter at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Last week’s ranking: 5
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Narrative: Maxey’s combination of scoring punch and playmaking has made him one of the league’s most dynamic guards — especially in clutch situations. He’s capable of taking over games from beyond the arc or in transition, and his defensive activity adds to his overall value profile. The Sixers’ mid-season surge, coupled with Maxey’s All-Star starter status, solidifies his case even if he’s not in the very top echelon. Continued production in Philly’s key wins will keep him relevant.
9. Anthony Edwards — Minnesota Timberwolves
Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) reacts during the fourth quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
Last week’s ranking: 8
Narrative: Edwards’ explosive scoring and athleticism have been indispensable for Minnesota’s offensive identity. His ability to hit deep shots and finish at the rim makes him one of the most electrifying offensive players in the league. However, team consistency and defensive lapses have slightly dampened his MVP positioning. If he can elevate the Timberwolves up the standings, Edwards could make a late push up the Ladder.
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10. Jamal Murray — Denver Nuggets
Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (27) reacts from the bench in the fourth quarter against the Brooklyn Nets at Ball Arena. Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Last week’s ranking: (likely No. 10)
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Narrative: Murray provides Denver with steady scoring and secondary playmaking, particularly with Jokic’s status in flux. His clutch shot-making and ability to create off the bounce alleviate pressure on Denver’s offense. While not a traditional MVP candidate based on stats alone, his influence on Nuggets success in Jokic’s absence keeps him in the conversation. A late-season surge by Denver would bolster his case further.
Conclusion
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) controls the ball as Denver Nuggets guard Julian Strawther (3) guards in the fourth quarter at Ball Arena. Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
With more than half the season complete, the MVP conversation is sharpening, but far from settled. While a few stars have established themselves at the top, late-season surges, team ascents, or missed games could dramatically reshape the ladder in the coming weeks. As the playoff push intensifies, every performance now carries outsized weight in determining who ultimately claims the league’s most prestigious individual honor.
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