Wembanyama surges to the top of the MVP race

For the first time in months, NBA.com no longer lists Shai Gilgeous-Alexander atop its weekly MVP Ladder. The new leader is Victor Wembanyama, with Nikola Jokic climbing to third and Luka Doncic slipping to fourth. Jaylen Brown enters the Top 5, pushing Cade Cunningham down to sixth. Columnist Shaun Powell explains Wembanyama’s rise by highlighting his historic defensive impact, noting his 17 blocks over the last three games and his 3.1‑block average despite playing fewer than 30 minutes per night. With a favorable schedule ahead, the Spurs (55‑18) could even chase the league’s best record, especially if Oklahoma City (57‑16) slows down.

In that scenario, Wembanyama could become the second 22‑year‑old MVP after Derrick Rose. Beyond his statistical line, 24.2 points, 11.2 rebounds and 3.1 blocks, it is his all‑around influence that strengthens his candidacy. Long viewed as the NBA’s future face, Wembanyama now looks like a genuine threat for the Michael Jordan Trophy.