Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has already led the Oklahoma City Thunder to a milestone never before achieved by the franchise: an NBA Finals championship. In the upcoming 2025-26 season, he stands on the brink of accomplishing another historic feat as he aims to become the first player in Thunder history to win back-to-back Most Valuable Player awards.
Oklahoma City’s Roster Returns with Promising Additions
The Thunder’s MVP legacy includes three names: Gilgeous-Alexander, Russell Westbrook, and Kevin Durant. While Westbrook and Durant both secured the MVP award during their time with Oklahoma City, neither managed to win the honor in consecutive seasons. Gilgeous-Alexander, however, appears well-positioned to break that pattern.
Oklahoma City plans to build on last season’s success by maintaining the core championship roster, supplemented by rookies Nikola Topic and Thomas Sorber. With increased playoff experience, the Thunder are expected to improve further, aiming to surpass last year’s performance.
Key Players and Areas for Growth on the Thunder Team
Although Gilgeous-Alexander has demonstrated remarkable skills, there remains some room for him to refine certain aspects of his game. Meanwhile, teammates Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren are believed to have additional potential to unlock, which could be crucial in elevating the team’s overall performance. While the Thunder may fall short of last season’s 68-win mark, reaching 70 wins is a plausible goal.
If Oklahoma City once again leads the Western Conference, Gilgeous-Alexander’s chances of earning a second consecutive MVP will be strong, especially if he maintains similar statistical output. His consistent high-level play alone could be enough to secure the award.
The Context of Back-to-Back MVP Winners in Recent NBA History
Recent years have seen Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Stephen Curry among those claiming back-to-back MVP honors. In fact, winning multiple consecutive MVPs has become a more common trend than the alternative. Gilgeous-Alexander’s odds in this context may not be against him; he could be a favorite as the new season gets underway.
The Impact of Another MVP on Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder’s Legacy
Securing a second straight MVP would firmly establish Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as the greatest player in Oklahoma City Thunder history, dispelling any debate. If the Thunder also capture a second consecutive championship, it would mark an extraordinary chapter for the franchise, underscoring that Oklahoma City may not see a talent of his caliber for many years to come.