How Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Can Snatch the 2024-25 NBA MVP Title

Many believe that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was unfairly denied the 2024-25 NBA MVP title. Despite his electrifying performance — drawing comparisons to Michael Jordan — and leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to a Western Conference-topping 57-25 record, the prestigious honor slipped through his fingers, landing instead with Denver Nuggets’ Nikola Jokic. Thunder fans are still reeling from that snub, but their hopes remain high for the 2024-25 season.

How Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Can Snatch the 2024-25 NBA MVP Title

According to recent predictions by ESPN, Gilgeous-Alexander is the favorite to win the MVP among coaches, executives, and scouts. Yet, it’s clear that having all the right stats and achievements isn’t always enough to secure the crown. So, what can SGA do to turn the tide in his favor this time around?

1. Break the 30-Points-Per-Game Barrier
Only three guards — Stephen Curry, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden — have won the MVP since 2015-16, and they all averaged over 30 points per game. For a player like Gilgeous-Alexander, who stands below 6-foot-6, such high-scoring performances are crucial. Unlike big men like Jokic or Embiid, smaller guards need eye-popping numbers to catch the voters’ attention. Luckily, SGA has already proven he can deliver, averaging 30 points or more in the last two seasons. He needs to continue this trend to make a stronger case for the MVP.

2. Lock Down on Defense: Top-Three in Steals
Offense might grab headlines, but defense still has a special place in the hearts of the old-school voters. If Gilgeous-Alexander can showcase his prowess on both ends of the court, his MVP stock will undoubtedly rise. Last season, he was tied for the most steals per game with De’Aaron Fox, showing off his incredible defensive IQ. Repeating this feat or finishing in the top three could be the key to winning the Michael Jordan Trophy.

3. Push the Envelope with Career-High Assists
Last season’s numbers, while impressive, were not enough to sway voters away from Nikola Jokic. To stand out, Gilgeous-Alexander might need to focus on another stat line — assists. With the Thunder’s best playmaker, Josh Giddey, traded away, there is an opportunity for SGA to shine as a distributor. Every MVP-winning point guard since 2000-01 has averaged at least 6.7 assists, with most hitting 7.7 or higher. Surpassing his 2023-24 average of 6.2 assists could boost his chances.

4. Secure a Top-Three Spot in the West
Historically, MVPs come from teams that dominate their conferences. Since 2014-15, eight of the last ten MVPs guided their teams to a top-three record. For the Thunder, who unexpectedly finished first in the West last season, staying in the top three is a realistic and crucial target for Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP quest.

5. Play 65+ Games: The New Golden Rule
The NBA’s latest eligibility rule mandates that players participate in at least 65 games to be considered for any major awards, including the MVP. Gilgeous-Alexander has crossed this threshold in four out of his six professional seasons. However, he has also hovered dangerously close to the minimum in some seasons. Staying healthy and playing at least 65 games is non-negotiable if he wants to keep his MVP hopes alive.