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How Draymond Green sees latest MVP straw poll with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading
Photo by Joshua Gateley/Getty Images

The NBA MVP race continues to generate debate as the regular season nears its conclusion. Media polls and shifting narratives have kept the conversation active across recent weeks.

ESPN’s latest straw poll has added further clarity to the discussion. The results showed a commanding lead for Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

He received 88 of 100 first-place votes, placing him well ahead of the field. Victor Wembanyama ranked second, while Nikola Jokic completed the top three.

Draymond Green backs Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as MVP despite debate over rivals


Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images

Draymond Green has now weighed in on the results of ESPN’s third and final MVP straw poll, and the Golden State Warriors forward made it clear he agrees with the overall order presented.

Speaking on The Draymond Green Show, he outlined his view on the leading candidates. “I agree with these rankings. I think SGA is number one, I think Wemby is number two and I think Joker rounds out the top-3.”

He pointed to recent form as a factor in Wembanyama’s rise and also highlighted how narratives can influence perception. However, the 36-year-old believes the award remains firmly in Gilgeous-Alexander’s hands.

“I think over the course of the last two months, Wemby jumped Joker but not quite SGA.

“I found it interesting that when Wemby spoke out the other day, on NBA.com, he jumped to number 1 on the MVP ladder. Power of media.

“Fortunately and unfortunately, SGA has still been doing what he’s doing, and you have to do something to take the MVP from him.”

Green’s conclusion was direct when assessing the challenge from rivals.

He added: “Wemby has put together a strong case, and it’s something that he’ll be able to build up on next year if the results play out like this, but I don’t think he’s done enough to take the MVP from SGA.”

With consistent performances and a significant voting lead, Gilgeous-Alexander remains the clear frontrunner as the season reaches its final stretch.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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