With Nikola Jokić having recently claimed the title for 2021-22’s NBA MVP, fans are already clamoring over who’s going to be next to claim the gong. The 2022-23 season is, of course, just around the corner – but it doesn’t hurt to get into some healthy speculation to prepare for the court excitement to come.
Fervent fans of NBA stars up and down the league are already putting their opinions forward for who the next big superstar’s likely to be. If you’re a sportsbook fan, you may already be deep into NJ sports betting over at Resorts Casino – where NBA markets are quickly lining up. But, before taking any kind of punt, who are some of the bigger names in contention for next season’s top prize?
Jayson Tatum
While Tatum may be a little overshadowed on the MVP wish list by the likes of Giannis and Luka Dončić, the Celts’ underrated superstar is certainly due some recognition. Especially the maturity and leadership he’s shown in the 202s season and playoffs. However, he’s still very much emerging in terms of being an asset on the court.
That said, oddsmakers are looking closely at Tatum thanks to his all-around talent. On the wing and in defense, he’s proven to be a boon for the Celts when it comes to regular assists. Tatum is quickly emerging as one of the must-watch players in the league, which puts him in prime position for the next MVP accolades.
Luka Dončić
Whatever happens to the Dallas Mavericks in the 2022 NBA Playoffs, one thing is for sure — Luka Doncic will come out a much better, more well-rounded player. Going into the last two regular seasons as a favorite for MVP and having made a name for himself in the NBA playoffs the two last seasons, Luka has never moved past the first round. This season, Doncic and his Mavs advanced all the way to the Western Conference Finals. At just 23 years old, Doncic’s understanding of the game, confidence and intelligence belies his age. With a new and improved diet, a taste of the Western Finals, look for Doncic to lead the league in scoring next season AND be a front runner for the MVP discussions.
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Across the board, Giannis’ name is the one that keeps coming up for next season’s MVP. He’s got form after all, having claimed the prize twice (and having been beaten to the punch by Jokić this time around), he’s a name that many shrewd fans would put at the top of the must-pick list.
The Bucks have weathered a fairly rocky season thanks to injury time – and it’s in large thanks to Giannis that they’ve continued to rack up the wins. Giannis is a household name all on his own – will he be the next MVP?
Nikola Jokić
Yes, after a barnstorming 2021-22, it makes logical sense to have Jokić’s name firmly on the board for another year of MVP glory. However, if he claims a third MVP title in a row, Jokić stands to become only the fourth NBA player to do so. That puts him in league with legends such as Russell, Chamberlain, and Bird – is he ready to join such a pantheon?
It’ll remain to be seen if voters feel this way. Jokić is certainly one of the most formidable of his craft right now (and the MVP award proves this). But will voters be looking to crown someone completely different by the end of the 2022-23 season?
It may seem a little too early to place any definites behind players yet to grasp the next MVP award. However, if you know your players and voting patterns – you might just be able to pick out the next big name. Will it be a three-time for Jokić? Keep your eyes on the court.