Nikola Jokic is enjoying an exceptional NBA season, yet recent MVP voting trends suggest he is being overlooked. Despite leading the league in both rebounds and assists while averaging a triple-double for the second consecutive year, the final ESPN MVP straw poll omitted him entirely from some ballots. This exclusion raises eyebrows, especially given his historical performance.
Unprecedented Achievements
Jokic’s season has been remarkable for a number of reasons:
- He averages 27.7 points per game, his second-highest career mark.
- His 13.0 rebounds per game is a significant achievement, surpassing last year’s performance and that of recent MVP winner Joel Embiid.
- He contributes 10.8 assists per game, exceeding his average from last season as well as Russell Westbrook’s MVP season in 2016-17.
Despite these impressive statistics, some analysts criticize Jokic for his higher turnover rate, currently at 3.9 turnovers per game.
Comparative Performance
Critics have cited various reasons for leaving Jokic off their MVP ballots:
- The Denver Nuggets’ team record is a recurring theme among detractors.
- Jokic’s turnover rate, although slightly higher than his past seasons, is not significantly different from other MVP candidates.
Indeed, Luka Doncic, another leading candidate, has a turnover rate of 4.0 but still garners significant recognition.
Voter Sentiment and Criticism
This situation hints at a broader issue of voter fatigue. Jokic has consistently demonstrated excellence, yet his achievements may be taken for granted. The narrative that greatness has become commonplace is concerning and prompts questions about how MVP voters weigh historical versus present performance.
Emerging Contenders
Other players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Victor Wembanyama are also having impressive seasons. However, the omission of Jokic, with his standout performance, is deemed egregious by many observers.
Concluding Thoughts
As the MVP race unfolds, it’s crucial to assess how trends influence voting. Jokic’s accomplishments merit serious consideration, and failing to include him in discussions reflects a potential bias in evaluating greatness in the NBA.
