Ranking The MVP Candidates By Tiers For The 2024-25 NBA Season

The 2024-25 NBA season is right around the corner, and the MVP race is already a hot topic. Nikola Jokic, the reigning MVP, remains a strong contender after leading the Nuggets to their first-ever championship last year. Meanwhile, Giannis Antetokounmpo continues to dominate, and Luka Doncic is looking primed for a monster season with the Mavericks. Jayson Tatum, fresh off leading the Celtics to the 2024 title, is also in the mix for his first MVP award. With preseason games giving us a sneak peek at players’ form, let’s dive into the top candidates and rank them into tiers based on their current stats and projected impact for the upcoming season.

True MVP Candidates

Luka Doncic, Nikola Jokic, Joel Embiid, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Giannis Antetokounmpo

Luka Doncic is considered the top MVP favorite for the 2024-25 season after leading the Mavericks to a strong 2023-24 campaign. Last season, he averaged a jaw-dropping 33.9 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 9.8 assists per game, ranking among the league leaders in scoring, rebounds, and assists. Doncic’s all-around dominance helped the Mavericks secure a 50-32 record and a 5th seed in the playoffs.

In the 2024 playoffs, Doncic’s heroics took Dallas all the way to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2011. Along the way, they upset top teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves and Oklahoma City Thunder, solidifying Luka as one of the league's best. Although they lost to the Boston Celtics in five games in the Finals, Doncic’s clutch performances, including a game-winner in the Western Conference Finals, have him poised to take home the MVP if he can keep the Mavs competitive.

Nikola Jokic took home his third MVP award in 2024 after another incredible season. He averaged 26.4 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 9.0 assists over the regular season, once again proving himself as the NBA's premier all-around player. Jokic’s ability to dominate the game through his scoring, playmaking, and rebounding helped the Nuggets secure a 57-25 record, tying for the best in the Western Conference.

Jokic continues to make history as he becomes only the fourth player in NBA history to win three MVPs in four years. His triple-double numbers and overall impact on both ends of the floor make him a constant force in the MVP conversation heading into the new season.

Joel Embiid heads into the 2024-25 season as a top MVP candidate. In the 2023-24 regular season, he put up 34.7 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, leading the league in scoring again. His dominant offensive output and ability to protect the rim have cemented his place among the league’s elite. With his MVP-level performances, Embiid is one of the most impactful players on both ends of the court.

The new 65-game rule adds pressure to stay healthy, but his value is undeniable when Embiid is on the floor (only 39 games last season). His size, skill, and leadership combination make him a top favorite for the MVP award. With his brand new extension, if he can maintain his current level and meet the game threshold, he’s in prime position to win his second MVP trophy.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a rising favorite for the 2024-25 MVP award. In the 2023-24 season, he averaged 30.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 6.2 assists over 75 games, leading the Thunder to a 57-25 record and the top seed in the Western Conference. His ability to score efficiently, create for teammates, and step up in key moments makes him one of the league’s most impactful players. With the Thunder’s young core improving and new veteran additions, Shai’s MVP chances are higher than ever.

Giannis Antetokounmpo remains one of the top MVP candidates for the 2024-25 season after an impressive 2023-24 campaign where he averaged 30.4 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game over 73 games. His all-around dominance, especially in transition where he led the league with a 68.3% field-goal percentage, makes him a nightmare for opponents.

The Bucks finished the 2023-24 regular season as the 3rd seed in the Eastern Conference with a 49-33 record. As he and Damian Lillard suffered injuries, they were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Indiana Pacers. With a healthy Lillard, Giannis is in prime position to lead the Bucks to a deeper playoff run, and if they bounce back strongly this season, he could secure his third MVP trophy.

Big Threats

Stephen Curry, Jayson Tatum, Kevin Durant, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Devin Booker

Stephen Curry remains one of the biggest MVP candidates for the 2024-25 season. In 2023-24, Curry put up 26.4 points, 5.1 assists, and 4.5 rebounds over 74 games. The Warriors finished the season with a 46-36 record, securing the 10th spot in the Western Conference. Curry’s shooting and playmaking still make him a top contender for the MVP, as he looks to lead the Warriors back to championship contention this year.

Jayson Tatum had another standout season in 2023-24, solidifying his status as a serious MVP contender. He averaged 26.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.9 assists across 74 games, leading the Celtics to a dominant 57-25 record and securing the top seed in the Eastern Conference. Tatum's versatility on both ends of the floor, combined with his ability to take over games, made him instrumental in their 2024 NBA title run. As the Celtics look to defend their title, Tatum's role remains crucial, making him a top threat for the MVP in the 2024-25 season.

Kevin Durant remains a serious MVP contender for 2024-25 because of his elite scoring, efficiency, and ability to impact the game in multiple ways. Last season, Durant averaged 27.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game while shooting 52.3% from the field and 41.3% from three. Even with the Suns’ early playoff exit, Durant’s versatility, leadership, and ability to carry Phoenix deep into the season alongside stars like Devin Booker keep him firmly in the MVP conversation for this upcoming year.

LeBron James remains a strong MVP contender for the 2024-25 season, even as he enters his 22nd year in the league. In 2023-24, LeBron averaged 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.3 assists over 71 games, continuing to be the centerpiece for the Lakers. With LeBron continuing to defy age and showing no signs of slowing down, his leadership and high-level production will be key as the Lakers aim for another deep playoff run, keeping him in the MVP conversation.

Anthony Davis had an outstanding 2023-24 season, playing 76 games and averaging 24.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. His elite two-way play made him one of the best big men in the league, and he shot an efficient 55.6% from the field, while also contributing 2.3 blocks per game, reinforcing his defensive presence. Davis helped the Lakers finish with a solid record, and his ability to dominate on both ends of the floor makes him a key contender for MVP in 2024-25.

Devin Booker put up a huge season in 2023-24, dropping 27.1 points, dishing out 6.9 assists, and grabbing 4.5 rebounds per game over 68 contests. Booker's playmaking has been just as important as his scoring, making him one of the top MVP contenders heading into 2024-25. With the Suns stacking up talent around him, adding Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, Booker is the guy who can drive them deep into the playoffs. If he keeps up these kinds of numbers, especially as the lead guard, he’ll definitely be in the mix for MVP honors this season.

Dark Horses

Victor Wembanyama, Ja Morant, Anthony Edwards, Jaylen Brown, Donovan Mitchell

Victor Wembanyama had a stellar rookie season in 2023-24, averaging 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.9 assists over 71 games. His shot-blocking and two-way presence, with 3.6 blocks per game, made him an instant game-changer. Wemby enters 2024-25 as a dark horse MVP candidate, and if he leads the Spurs to more wins, his case will grow stronger.

Ja Morant's 2023-24 season was shortened to just 9 games, but he still showed why he's one of the most electric players in the league. He averaged 25.1 points, 8.1 assists, and 5.6 rebounds per game, with his explosive athleticism and playmaking continuing to be a major asset for the Grizzlies. If Morant can stay on the floor consistently and lead Memphis to a strong playoff run, his MVP candidacy will be hard to ignore as he remains one of the most dynamic guards in the league.

Anthony Edwards had a breakout year in 2023-24, averaging 25.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists across 79 games. His offensive production, coupled with his defensive presence, has made him the face of the Timberwolves and one of the most exciting young players in the league. Edwards led the Timberwolves to the Western Conference Finals, showing off his scoring ability with a 51-point performance in the playoffs. If he continues improving at this pace, he could be a dark horse for the MVP race in 2024-25.

Jaylen Brown played a pivotal role in leading the Celtics to the 2024 NBA championship, averaging 23.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 3.3 assists during their playoff run, which earned him the Finals MVP. Brown's consistent scoring and leadership have solidified his place as one of the top players in the league. With the Celtics expected to contend for another title, Brown’s performances could elevate him into MVP discussions this season.

Donovan Mitchell put together a strong 2023-24 season, averaging 26.6 points, 6.1 assists, and 5.1 rebounds across 55 games. His offensive efficiency, shooting 46.2% from the field and 36.8% from three, kept the Cavaliers competitive in a tough Eastern Conference. Mitchell was selected to his fifth All-Star game and continued to lead Cleveland as a high-impact scorer and playmaker. As the Cavaliers look to build on their playoff push from last season, Mitchell’s leadership and consistent scoring put him firmly in the MVP conversation for 2024-25. If the Cavaliers can elevate their play and push deeper into the playoffs, Mitchell’s case for MVP will only get stronger.

Highly Unlikely

Kawhi Leonard, Tyrese Maxey, Jalen Brunson, Kyrie Irving, Jimmy Butler, Karl-Anthony Towns, Trae Young, Zion Williamson

Kawhi Leonard put up 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game across 68 games in the 2023-24 season. Although he had an efficient regular season, leading the Clippers offensively, injuries once again limited his availability in the playoffs, where he played just two games and averaged 12.0 points and 8.0 rebounds. While Leonard still has the talent to be in the MVP conversation, his ongoing load management and injury history make it unlikely he’ll stay in the mix for the full season on a diminished Clippers’ squad without Paul George.

Tyrese Maxey had a breakout 2023-24 season, averaging 25.9 points, 6.2 assists, and 3.7 rebounds over 70 games, solidifying his spot as one of the rising stars in the league. The addition of Paul George to the 76ers has given Maxey even more room to shine, as he’ll have less defensive pressure on him and can take on more of a leadership role. Maxey’s ability to score efficiently and make plays will be key as Philadelphia pushes for a deep playoff run, keeping him in the MVP conversation for 2024-25.

Jalen Brunson continued to elevate his game in 2023-24, averaging 28.7 points, 6.7 assists, and 3.6 rebounds over 77 games. His leadership helped the Knicks secure the second seed in the East with a 50-win season. With the arrival of Karl-Anthony Towns, Brunson now has a formidable frontcourt partner to complement his playmaking and scoring abilities. If the Knicks make a strong playoff push, Brunson could emerge as a dark horse MVP candidate for the upcoming season.

Kyrie Irving put together a strong 2023-24 season for the Mavericks, averaging 22.1 points, 5.1 assists, and 3.7 rebounds over 22 playoff games. His scoring, especially in clutch moments, helped Dallas make a deep playoff run, and his partnership with Luka Doncic continues to be one of the best in the league. Heading into 2024-25, Irving will be a key piece in the Mavericks’ quest for another Finals appearance, and with new additions like Klay Thompson, Kyrie has the potential to make a dark horse MVP case.

Jimmy Butler was the heart and soul of the Heat once again, averaging 20.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists across 60 games in the 2023-24 season. Butler’s impact is always more noticeable in the playoffs, where he consistently elevates his game. Miami finished with a 33-27 record when Butler played, but fell in the first round again after he got injured. His leadership and ability to carry Miami in tough situations could keep him on the fringe of the MVP discussion in what will become a crucial season of his career and future with the team.

Karl-Anthony Towns recently joined the Knicks in a blockbuster trade that sent Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo to the Timberwolves. Towns had an impressive 2023-24 season, averaging 21.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.0 assists over 62 games while shooting 50.4% from the field and 41.6% from three. Now with the Knicks, Towns adds a dynamic offensive presence to a team already contending in the Eastern Conference, making him a key piece in New York's push for a title and a potential dark horse MVP candidate.

Trae Young averaged 25.7 points and 10.8 assists over 54 games in 2023-24. The Hawks’ decision to trade Dejounte Murray to the Pelicans means Young will have more responsibility on both ends, but Atlanta may struggle without Murray’s defense and scoring. Young's individual stats will likely remain impressive, but Atlanta’s lower competitiveness could hurt his MVP chances.

Zion Williamson played a career-high 70 games in 2023-24, averaging 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.0 assists. His improved health made a huge impact on the Pelicans, and if he can stay healthy again in 2024-25, Zion could finally make a serious MVP push while leading the Pelicans into playoff contention.