Nikola Jokic Named NBA Best Player, Expected 2025-26 MVP Amid Strategic Center Role Shift

Nikola Jokic continues to be recognized as the NBA's best player, leading ESPN's rankings and MVP polls for the 2025-26 season, despite strong competition from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luka Doncic. Experts and NBA insiders praise Jokic's unique skill set, including his scoring, passing, and versatility, which have redefined the center position and influenced a league-wide trend towards prioritizing size. Jokic's consistent dominance is reflected in his historic triple-double averages and high efficiency, making him a perennial MVP favorite. His impact on the Denver Nuggets is significant, with teammates like Aaron Gordon highlighting Jokic's ability to elevate the team's performance and contend for an NBA title. The league acknowledges Jokic's generational influence, crediting him with changing perceptions of big men and inspiring strategic shifts across teams. Overall, Jokic remains the central figure in the NBA's competitive landscape heading into the new season.