3 Sneaky NBA MVP Candidates For 2025-26

Victor Wembanyama will make his return to the court on October 22nd against the Dallas Mavericks after playing just 46 games last year. The generational superstar is expected to have a huge season with the San Antonio Spurs, and this time, he will have talented players around him.

The Spurs have an impressive group of young guards headlined by De’Aaron Fox, Dylan Harper, and reigning rookie of the year Stephon Castle. This group should help Wembanyama make the playoffs for the first time, increasing his MVP probability.

Wembanyama is currently listed at +1800 to win the NBA MVP. His defensive player of the year caliber defense and continuously developing offensive game should make him a real threat for the award.

Donovan Mitchell

Donovan Mitchell is someone who often goes overlooked when it comes to the best players in the NBA. The talented guard has made six consecutive All-Star appearances and is looking for even more. His great scoring, combined with underrated playmaking, makes him a real contender for the MVP award. He finished fifth in voting last season.

Mitchell has an opportunity to control the Cleveland Cavaliers’ offense early in the season if guard Darius Garland is out with an injury. He has averaged close to 30 ppg before, and if he stays healthy, he makes a lot of sense to put up great numbers once again. He is currently a massive underdog, sitting at +8000 to win the NBA MVP award.

Anthony Edwards

Anthony Edwards is a superstar in every way. His skill level seems to rise every time he sets foot on the court, and he showed that last season with his amazing three-point shooting jump. The Minnesota Timberwolves will be contenders, which will certainly help his case for the MVP.

Edwards is easily the most valuable player to the Timberwolves. Apart from the occasional Julius Randle hot stretch, it is Edwards carrying the Wolves. His elite shot-making and athleticism make him a candidate to continue to improve once again. If he can take another leap, he could find himself as the NBA MVP. His odds are currently listed at +1000

End Of My NBA Rant

The MVP award is usually predictable, with the candidates being quite obvious early in the season. These are three players who have an opportunity to take the prize from Jokic and SGA. Edwards and Wembanyama will likely continue to make significant leaps in development, and Mitchell will aim to secure a larger role in Cleveland.