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SGA MVP Odds Skyrocket With Nikola Jokic Injury

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The SGA MVP campaign takes off at another level following the recent Nikola Jokic injury that has dented his odds for the said award. After all, we’ve seen how these two players have been the consistent names atop the MVP race. The Denver star takes a noticeable time off, and it means Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is getting more love for the award.

For nearly a month and a half, Jokic has had his lead in the KIA MVP Ladder. It was always him getting the top honors with his impressive performances. While Gilgeous-Alexander has had his fair share of explosive games, Jokic remains the top man for the MVP, so far. At this point, it may not be hard for SGA to make the climb this time around.

SGA MVP Odds Skyrocket With Nikola Jokic Injury

According to reports, Jokic will be missing games for a month with a hyperextended knee. That’s a huge blow to the Nuggets’ chances to take a secure spot in the Western Conference. With the way Shai is playing right now, he’s definitely set to make up for a chance to return to the top of the MVP ladder. If you’re not convinced, the odds are already speaking for themselves.

The Odds Are Shifting In SGA’s Favor

SGA was already in the lead right at the beginning of the season. As of the time of writing, the Thunder star is at -426, way ahead of Luka Doncic‘s +430. At this point, it’s going to be him and SGA who will be edging out each other for the MVP. Cade Cunningham also comes into the fold as a promising candidate, especially with Detroit rising as a power in the East.

Still, this doesn’t change the narrative much. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is already making rounds to repeat as the MVP this year. Many critics are claiming that it would take a superhuman effort from Jokic after his absence to get back to the top. It would also take successful runs from both the Lakers and the Pistons for either Doncic or Cunningham to be a threat, respectively.

Heading into 2026, Jokic was a +175 to being off the board after his injury. No wonder SGA is the main beneficiary of this unfortunate injury. However, it cannot be denied that Oklahoma City’s impressive pace brings a whole lot of realistic expectations for the reigning MVP.

SGA Is On A Tear

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) shoots as Portland Trail Blazers forward Toumani Camara (33) defends during the second half at Paycom Center.
Dec 31, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) shoots as Portland Trail Blazers forward Toumani Camara (33) defends during the second half at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

Despite OKC suffering some untimely losses in December, SGA remains on a promising tear this season. In the last 10 games, he is averaging 30.6 points, 6.3 assists, and 4.7 rebounds. He is doing all that while shooting from a staggering 57.7% from the field. To say it’s great is an understatement, considering that he just logged his 105th straight game with 20+ points.

In a 100-game stretch where he’s scored at least 20 points, SGA remains magnificent. He was averaging 32.9 points, 6.4 assists, and 4.9 rebounds in nearly 50/40/90 splits. In that span, OKC has gone 84-16 and is both the 1st seed. It’s a legendary stretch that continues to be impressive. All the more reason his MVP resume should stack up with more green flags.

Things Are Looking Up For SGA And OKC

With Jokic out, and SGA bringing consistent high-level performances, it’s no secret that he’s going for the MVP. He’s on the way to becoming the first guard to repeat as the season MVP since Stephen Curry in 2015 and 2016.

Remember, the Thunder are finally getting back on track with their identity. Chet Holmgren is going for an All-Star season, and Jalen Williams is back from his surgery. To see SGA continue to perform with elevated consistency is a blessing in disguise for the Thunder at this point.

So yes, while SGA’s MVP odds continue to skyrocket, Oklahoma City is winning. That’s something to look out for in the coming weeks as the season cruises through the All-Star Break soon.

Featured Image: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images