Nikola Jokic is a leading candidate to win his fourth NBA MVP in the upcoming 2024-25 season, according to oddsmakers. Achieving this milestone would place Jokic in an elite group with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Michael Jordan, Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain, and LeBron James—widely regarded as the five greatest basketball players ever.
Following the Boston Celtics’ 18th championship win, the odds for next season were released, with Jokic and Luka Doncic emerging as co-favorites. This list includes familiar names who have been contenders for the NBA’s top individual honor in recent years. The new odds reflect last season’s final standings, where Jokic finished ahead of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Doncic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Jalen Brunson. Joel Embiid, the 2023 MVP, failed to meet the minimum games requirement to defend his title. Meanwhile, young talents like Anthony Edwards and Victor Wembanyama are expected to have breakout seasons.
During the 2023-24 season, Jokic maintained his exceptional performance throughout the regular season and excelled even more after the All-Star break. Denver achieved a 21-6 record during this period despite Jamal Murray missing significant time. Jokic averaged 26.4 points, 12.4 rebounds, and nine assists per game on 58% shooting, leading the league in Player Efficiency Rating (31), Win Shares (17), Box Plus-Minus (13.2), and Value Over Replacement Player (10.6). Jokic played 79 games, the most in his three MVP-winning seasons over four years.
Denver Nuggets coach Michael Malone acknowledged he might have pushed his players too hard during the regular season, contributing to their early playoff exit. However, Malone noted that Jokic remained resilient and did not tire during the postseason. This offseason, the Nuggets aim to provide Jokic with more support, both in terms of production and stronger backup options at center to reduce his minutes.
Jokic will also participate in the Olympics with Serbia’s national team this summer, adding to his already demanding schedule. Despite his apparent lack of interest in individual awards, the prospect of Jokic winning another MVP seems plausible given his consistent performance. The Nuggets are not expected to prioritize the regular season as heavily next year, but Jokic’s exceptional skills and impact on the game make him a perennial contender.
In Denver, fans marvel at the idea that a three-time MVP resides in their city, and no one has come close to challenging Jokic’s status as the best player in the world. His potential fourth MVP would further solidify his legacy and place him among the all-time greats in basketball history.
