LeBron Ranks Wemby Behind SGA, Jokic, Luka Doncic in NBA MVP Race in New Video with Steve Nash

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James knows that San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama is on the rise, but he's not ready to crown the youngster just yet.

While speaking with co-host Steve Nash on the Mind the Game podcast (37:20 mark), James discussed Wembanyama's status as an MVP candidate as the 2025-26 regular season nears its end.

"MVP candidate, for sure, there's no question about it," James said of the 2023 No. 1 pick. "Obviously, what they're doing this year as a team, they're having a special year. ... He's averaging 25 [points], 11 rebounds, three blocks, three assists. Defensive Player of the Year, you literally don't want to go to the hole when he's on the floor."

However, James went on to say that he would rank Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic and Lakers teammate Luka Doncic ahead of Wembanyama in the MVP race this year.

"I think he's making a case, for sure. ... I don't want to be the guy that says his time will come, because that's kind of corny to me, too. If you're the MVP, you're the f--king MVP. You shouldn't have to 'pay your dues' and all that type of stuff," James said. "I just think Shai and Jokic and Luka are having a little bit [better years]."

Wembanyama has helped lead the Spurs (60-19) to their first 60-win season since 2016-17. The 22-year-old had back-to-back 41-point games last week as he tries to solidify his case for his first NBA MVP award. Still, James feels that the award is not yet locked up.

"If he was to get it, I wouldn't be like, 'Oh my God, what are we doing?!' But if he didn't, I would understand that as well," James said. "There's a case for all four guys.