Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective 1st MVP Straw Poll - Historic Race Coming?
Dec 19, 2025
Discover the thrilling MVP race as experts dissect the first straw poll results, showcasing a fierce competition between Jokic and SGA. Unexpected candidates like Tyrese Maxey and Cade Cunningham gain recognition, while injuries complicate Giannis's standing. Luka Doncic impresses with his scoring prowess, and the panel reviews emerging players and team success influencing MVP voting dynamics. Delve into the debates around defensive stats and efficiency as the hosts predict the season's trajectory.
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Straw Poll Mirrors Real MVP Voting
- Tim Bontemps' MVP straw poll surveys media across all 28 NBA markets plus national and international media to mirror end-of-season voting.
- The poll has correctly predicted the MVP for six straight years, making it a valuable early indicator.
Wembanyama's Eligibility Shapes His Case
- Victor Wembanyama sits in the ballot despite injury risk, but his eligibility hinges on the 65-game rule and minutes exceptions.
- If he stays healthy, he projects as a Defensive Player of the Year favorite and an MVP contender.
Maxey Breaks Into Early Ballots
- Tyrese Maxey entered the straw poll as a first-time entrant due to his scoring surge and role amid Sixers' shoeleather roster changes.
- Continued strong play could keep him on ballots and push him toward All-NBA consideration.