James Harden Says 'All the Players' Want to See SGA Win 2025 NBA MVP Over Nikola Jokic

NBA players may not be rooting for Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokić to claim another MVP award.

During a discussion with Sports Illustrated's Chris Mannix, NBA reporter Rachel Nichols revealed a conversation she had with Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden about how the veteran and many around the league want Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to win the award even if Jokić's stats are technically superior.

"I talked to James Harden for a little bit this morning before the Clippers went to Denver this morning and I said 'who's the best player?'" Nichols said. "He said 'well no question, Jokić is the best player' but even he said 'all the players, we want to see Shai win the MVP because of the season he had and all the winning.'"

Gilgeous-Alexander averaged 32.7 points, 6.4 assists and 5.0 rebounds in 76 games for the Thunder in 2024-25. His breakout season has helped the team go 68-14 and earn the best record in the NBA.

His efforts have been notable. However, Jokić's technical numbers are undeniably superior. The center averaged 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds and 10.2 assists in 70 games for the Nuggets. This was the first time he has averaged a triple-double in his career, and he has an excellent case to claim his fourth MVP in five seasons.

Denver went 50-32 and earned the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference.

Historically, when two players are in a close race for MVP, the player leading the team with the better record has often won MVP. We'll see if that holds true for Gilgeous-Alexander.