The Athletic NBA Daily Who are the MVP favorites next season?
Jul 15, 2025
Sam Vecenie, an NBA analyst and writer for The Athletic, joins the conversation to forecast next season's MVP candidates. The discussion kicks off from the Summer League, spotlighting rookies like Cooper Flagg and Trey Johnson. They dive into the potential of players such as Chet Holmgren and Victor Wembanyama, emphasizing the influence of defensive skills on the MVP race. Vecenie also highlights how team dynamics and media narratives could sway voters, making this a thrilling insight into the upcoming NBA landscape.
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Cooper Flagg Rookie of Year Favorite
- Cooper Flagg is the clear favorite for Rookie of the Year due to his versatility and skill.
- Mavericks are likely to give him opportunities despite an otherwise crowded roster.
Top Defensive Player Contenders
- Victor Wembanyama is a generational defender likely to win Defensive Player of the Year if he stays healthy.
- Chet Holmgren also offers elite defense and may compete due to OKC's strong team defense.
MVP Favorites and Odds
- Nikola Jokic is currently favored to win MVP next season, followed by Shea and Luka.
- Giannis has a strong case if he significantly boosts a weaker team with impressive stats.