Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has once again positioned himself as the frontrunner for the Most Valuable Player award heading into the 2025-26 NBA season. After delivering an impressive 2024-25 campaign that included winning the scoring title, MVP honors, and Finals MVP en route to a championship, Gilgeous-Alexander’s status as the Shai Gilgeous-Alexander MVP favorite is well established.
Recently signed to a $285 million contract extension keeping him in OKC through 2031, Gilgeous-Alexander’s outstanding individual performance combined with the Thunder’s team success has earned him +200 odds at FanDuel Sportsbook to repeat as league MVP, narrowly ahead of Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic.
Exceptional Statistics and Team Stability Fuel Expectations
Last season, Gilgeous-Alexander averaged 32.7 points, 6.4 assists, and 1.7 steals per game, while shooting 52% from the field, leading the league’s best team in efficiency and defense. His performance ranked among the best guard seasons in recent memory, solidifying his reputation and the high expectations for the upcoming year.
The Thunder are returning virtually the same roster that won the title, maintaining continuity and chemistry. They will also add rookies Thomas Sorber, Brooks Barnhizer, and 2024 draftee Nikola Topic to bolster their lineup. The organization retains the flexibility to improve further with multiple future draft picks still available, aiming to strengthen for their pursuit of consecutive championships.
Challenges Ahead in Defending Titles and Awards
Despite holding the edge, Gilgeous-Alexander faces stiff competition in the MVP race. Nikola Jokic, who pushed the Thunder to a seven-game Finals series, remains a strong contender with +250 odds, reflecting his ability to lead and impact games at a high level. Other notable challengers include Luka Doncic of the Lakers at +500, Giannis Antetokounmpo from the Bucks at +1000, Victor Wembanyama at +1700, and Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards at +2100.
Defending both the championship and MVP award carries inherent difficulties. With heightened attention on the Thunder, opponents will intensify their defensive strategies against Gilgeous-Alexander and his teammates. Furthermore, MVP selections often depend on narratives that extend beyond pure productivity and winning.
Upcoming Season and Preseason Preparations
The Thunder will commence their 2025-26 campaign with six preseason games, beginning with a matchup against the Charlotte Hornets on October 5. These contests will serve as a platform to integrate new players and fine-tune strategies as they strive for a rare back-to-back championship feat in franchise history.
Outlook: Determined Pursuit of a Historic Repeat
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s emergence as a leading MVP candidate, combined with the Oklahoma City Thunder’s return as a dominant force, sets the stage for an intense season ahead. Maintaining their championship form will require consistent excellence amid mounting pressure and increased scrutiny. How the Thunder adapt and evolve may shape the team‘s legacy and Gilgeous-Alexander’s journey toward solidifying his place among the NBA’s elite.