Full Comparison Of MVP Candidates: Nikola Jokic vs. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The MVP race is heating up, and the spotlight has narrowed on two of the league's most electrifying players: Nikola Jokic, the three-time MVP of the Denver Nuggets, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the star driving the OKC Thunder's surge. In our latest MVP rankings, both names were among the top contenders, but now it’s time to dig deeper.

Who has the edge as the season progresses? Is it Jokic’s unparalleled playmaking and dominance in the paint, or SGA’s relentless scoring and defensive impact? Let’s break it all down. With both players leading the race for the season so far, we have a full comparison of Jokic and Gilgeous-Alexander regarding major statistics.

Points Per Game (PPG)

1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander - 31.3 (2 Points)

2. Nikola Jokic - 30.7 (1 Point)

When it comes to scoring, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is putting on a clinic this season. His 31.3 PPG showcases his ability to fill it up from all three levels, making him one of the league's most dynamic offensive weapons. Especially when SGA drives to the basket, there is no way he can be stopped because his athleticism is on an elite level. 

On the other side, Nikola Jokic isn't far behind with 30.7 PPG, showing off his versatility by scoring in the post, mid-range, and beyond the arc. While Jokic is a scoring savant in his own right, Shai edges him out here in terms of raw numbers (and making it look pretty), earning the full 2 points.

Rebounds Per Game (RPG)

1. Nikola Jokic - 13.0 (2 Points)

2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander - 5.5 (1 Point)

The Joker dominates this category, pulling down a staggering 13.0 rebounds per game. Whether it’s cleaning up the defensive glass or snatching offensive boards for second-chance points, Jokic’s rebounding is a cornerstone of Denver’s success. 

Shai’s 5.5 RPG is respectable for a guard, showing his hustle and positioning, but he’s no match for the big man here. SGA has a heavy load to handle with scoring and playmaking but he is also 6'6", not a 7-footer. Advantage Jokic, who grabs the 2 points.

Assists Per Game (APG):

1. Nikola Jokic - 9.7 (2 Points)

2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander - 6.0 (1 Point)

If playmaking were an art form, Nikola Jokic would be Picasso. His 9.7 APG leads all centers and rivals some of the league's best point guards. He is capable of delivering jaw-dropping no-look dimes and perfectly placed outlet passes, meaning Jokic’s vision is second to none. 

The Thunder get their playmaking from multiple sources, not just their superstar player and MVP candidate. Still, Shai’s 6.0 APG is solid, reflecting his growth as a facilitator, but this category is all Jokic. Another 2 points for the Serbian sensation.

Steals Per Game (SPG)

1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander - 2.0 (2 Points)

2. Nikola Jokic - 1.7 (1 Point)

Here’s where Shai’s defensive prowess shines. Leading this category with 2.0 SPG, he’s a nightmare for opposing ball handlers, using his length and instincts to disrupt plays. SGA has improved dramatically as a defender over the last few seasons and that comes down to his experience and work in practice. 

Meanwhile, Jokic holds his own with 1.7 SPG, impressive for a big man who isn't the most mobile. A lot of Jokic's steals come from his high basketball IQ, but Shai’s quick hands and ability to generate turnovers give him the upper hand here. Full marks to SGA.

Blocks Per Game (BPG)

1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander - 1.2 (2 Points)

2. Nikola Jokic - 0.6 (1 Point)

Shai continues to impress defensively with 1.2 BPG, showcasing his underrated rim protection despite being a guard. The guard has improved dramatically on the defensive end and his timing on blocks is something to marvel at.

On the other side, Jokic’s 0.6 BPG reflects his position as more of a positional defender rather than a shot-blocker. While Jokic’s defensive IQ is undeniable, Shai takes this category with his surprising ability to swat shots.

Turnovers Per Game (TOV)

1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander - 2.7 (2 Points)

2. Nikola Jokic - 3.3 (1 Point)

In a head-to-head MVP race, turnovers can make all the difference. Shai’s 2.7 TOV per game demonstrates his poise and care with the ball, especially as a high-usage guard. Shai's turnover numbers aren't bad at all and he deserves credit for keeping them as low as possible. 

Nikola Jokic, while still efficient, averages 3.3 TOV per game, slightly higher due to his role as Denver’s offensive hub. Denver might have less all-around talent than the Thunder which means Jokic carries a heavy load, but Shai still wins this battle with his ability to limit mistakes.

Shooting Percentage (eFG%)

1. Nikola Jokic - 61.5% (2 Points)

2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander - 57.9% (1 Point)

Efficiency matters and Jokic’s 61.5% eFG is simply elite. It reflects his smart shot selection and uncanny touch around the rim. Nobody can score as efficiently as Jokic right now and he has been tremendous all season long. 

Shai’s 57.9% is impressive for a guard who frequently takes contested shots and is a true scorer, but Jokic’s efficiency in the post and on jumpers gives him the edge here. 2 points to the Joker.

Player Efficiency Rating (PER)

1. Nikola Jokic - 32.1 (2 Points)

2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander - 30.2 (1 Point)

Jokic’s PER of 32.1 isn’t just league-leading—it’s historic. His all-around brilliance makes him a statistical marvel, blending scoring, rebounding, and playmaking into one dominant package. Jokic's career PER (28.3) also ranks first all-time, so there's that as well. 

Shai’s 30.2 PER is incredible, especially for a guard, because they are known to turn the ball over a lot and shoot lower percentages from the field. Regardless, Jokic’s efficiency across the board takes the crown and there isn't a debate or a surprise about that. 

Win Shares (WS):

1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander - 7.0 (2 Points)

2. Nikola Jokic - 6.6 (1 Point)

Shai’s contributions to Oklahoma City’s success are reflected in his league-best 7.0 Win Shares. His ability to consistently make winning plays on both ends of the floor has propelled OKC to an outstanding record. 

Jokic’s 6.6 Win Shares are a testament to his value in Denver, but the fact is the Nuggets have not been able to win as many games as the Thunder. Jokic has to take some of that "blame" even if it is unfair, and so Shai’s edge in this category is undeniable.

Win/Loss Record (W/L Record)

1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander - 28-5 (2 Points)

2. Nikola Jokic - 19-13 (1 Point)

This might be the most compelling argument for Shai’s MVP case. OKC’s 28-5 record, powered by his leadership, scoring, and defense, is a statement. The Thunder have been dominant all season long, ranking 9th in scoring and 7th in offensive rating, and guess who is driving that?

Meanwhile, Jokic’s Denver squad at 19-13 is solid but not as dominant. The Nuggets have not been the dominant as they have been over the last two seasons, even if they have picked it up over the last few weeks. In a race this close, team success matters, and Shai earns the full 2 points here.

MVP Player Rankings

1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander - 16 Points

2. Nikola Jokic - 14 Points

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads Nikola Jokic in this MVP showdown for one simple reason: he’s doing it all and winning big. Shai’s offensive brilliance, highlighted by his 31.3 PPG, is matched only by his relentless defensive impact, where he racks up steals and blocks like a two-way maestro.

But what truly separates him is how his individual excellence translates to team success—his Oklahoma City Thunder boast a Western Conference-best 28-5 record, a testament to his leadership. Jokic may edge him in efficiency and playmaking, but Shai’s ability to dominate both ends of the floor while guiding his team to historic heights makes him the current MVP frontrunner. The race is close, but right now, SGA is writing the story of the season.