Walking into the 2026 NBA season, I'm buzzing with excitement over who will clinch the Finals MVP. When considering strong contenders, it's impossible to overlook players who've been delivering consistent performances. Luka Doncic, for instance, who posted an average of 32.6 points per game last season, is undoubtedly on the radar. The young star's offensive efficiency isn't just a fluke; he boasts a true shooting percentage of 58.3%, which puts him in elite company in the league.
Another hot topic centers around Jayson Tatum. His remarkable progression since entering the NBA has been nothing short of meteoric. Elevating his game, last season, Tatum surged to an average of 30.1 points with 8.8 rebounds per game. His performance in the playoffs was even more stellar, cementing his place as one of the top contenders. If Tatum continues on this trajectory, he's sure to be a household name when it comes to MVP discussions.
But let's not forget about Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Greek Freak himself. Having already claimed two regular-season MVP awards and an NBA championship, Giannis remains a force to be reckoned with. Last year, he averaged a double-double with 28.4 points and 11.5 rebounds. If Milwaukee makes another deep playoff run, Giannis could easily add another accolade to his resume. Can anyone stop this juggernaut on his path to another MVP title? Not easily, given his towering presence and defensive prowess.
Devin Booker is another candidate I've got my eyes on. Known for his sheer scoring ability, Booker dropped 27.5 points on average last season. What makes Booker stand out is his versatility on the court, being able to efficiently play both shooting guard and point guard positions. As the Phoenix Suns build a stronger team around him, his likelihood of securing the MVP award only grows higher.
In recent times, Joel Embiid has also emerged as a significant contender. Dealing with injuries in previous seasons has made his journey challenging, but his unrivaled talent is undeniable. Leading the league with 33.1 points and 10.2 rebounds last season, Embiid showcased why he's a key figure for the Philadelphia 76ers. If he manages to stay healthy, there’s no reason why he can't be in the running for Finals MVP. The statistical evidence is clear: Embiid’s dominance around the rim and defensive abilities are top-tier.
One can't ignore the splash brothers from Golden State, either. Stephen Curry, despite turning 38 in 2026, continues to defy age with his impeccable shooting and court vision. Averaging 29.7 points and 6.2 assists last season, Curry has shown that age is but a number. His teammate Klay Thompson, who returned from injury with a vengeance, posted a respectable 20.8 points per game with a 41.2% shooting from beyond the arc. Together, their chemistry and experience could result in another championship banner hanging in the Chase Center.
Zion Williamson also deserves mention. The 25-year-old phenom averaged 26.9 points with 7.6 rebounds last season, showcasing his explosive athleticism and versatility. New Orleans Pelicans fans have every reason to be optimistic about their star player. If he continues to stay fit and dominate the court, Zion could easily be a dark horse in the MVP race. The data speaks volumes: his player efficiency rating (PER) of 27.5 is among the highest in the league.
Of course, discussing potential MVPs would be incomplete without mentioning Kevin Durant. The seasoned veteran averaged 29.9 points and 7.4 rebounds last season. KD's ability to hit clutch shots and lead his team is unparalleled. If the Brooklyn Nets stay healthy and make a playoff push, Durant's storied career might just add another MVP award. His usage rate of 31.1% demonstrates how integral he is to the team’s success.
In any MVP conversation, the name Nikola Jokic stands out unequivocally. The 7-footer with point guard skills averaged 27.1 points, 13.8 rebounds, and 8.3 assists last season. Jokic’s vision and passing skills make him a triple-double threat every game. Could he snag another MVP award in 2026? Absolutely, considering the Denver Nuggets' potential to make a deep playoff run.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s to never underestimate the underdogs. Players like Ja Morant and Trae Young have been making waves with their dynamic playing styles. Morant dazzled with an average of 27.3 points and 7.0 assists per game, whereas Young led his team with 25.5 points and an impressive 9.7 assists. Both these young guards bring a fresh energy to the court, making them potential candidates for disrupting the MVP race.
We also need to talk about the international stars who have made their mark on the NBA. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander from Canada, for example, has consistently improved each season. Last year, he averaged 24.7 points and 5.9 assists, displaying his potential to become a franchise player. With the right pieces around him, Shai could very well be in the MVP conversation.
Lastly, and perhaps controversially, LeBron James isn’t out of the picture either. Even at 41, LeBron averaged 25.9 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 7.9 assists last season. His longevity and impact on the game are astounding. If the Lakers manage a strong season, LeBron could pull off a historic MVP win, further cementing his legacy. Where else can we see a player of this caliber rewriting history every single year? Nowhere else but in the NBA.
For more detailed insights and discussions on the upcoming NBA season and player performances, I’d recommend checking out arena plus. Their analyses and expert opinions provide invaluable perspectives for any basketball enthusiast wanting to stay ahead of the curve.