NBA Storylines Debate: Jalen Brunson, Anthony Edwards, or Donovan Mitchell for MVP?
The NBA regular season is just around the corner, making it the perfect time to preview some individual player storylines. Who could be the unexpected contenders for the Most Valuable Player award? Who has the most to prove? And who is poised for a comeback?
Looking ahead to the season, The Athletic has assembled three of its NBA writers: William Guillory, Law Murray, and Josh Robbins. They will discuss the players who could be in the running for the MVP award.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokić, and Luka Dončić are the preseason favorites to win the 2025-26 NBA Most Valuable Player award. This makes sense, given their impressive track records. However, who else is a player poised to contend for the award?
William Guillory suggests Jalen Brunson. He led the New York Knicks to the Eastern Conference finals for the first time since 2000, and the East is expected to be easier to navigate this season. The Knicks have a strong roster and a new head coach who brings modern offensive concepts, positioning Brunson for efficiency. Brunson's clutch performances and potential for a 60-win team make him a strong contender.
Law Murray argues for Anthony Edwards. He's a top shooting guard, only 24 years old, and has played in back-to-back Western Conference finals. Edwards is built for MVP usage and narrative, and the Timberwolves need his greatness to build on recent success. If Edwards takes the next step, he could win the Michael Jordan Trophy.
Josh Robbins highlights the importance of being on a top-performing team. He notes that in the last 25 seasons, players on top-two conference teams have won the MVP award 21 times. He mentions Russell Westbrook, Jokić, and Joel Embiid as examples. Victor Wembanyama has talent, but his team's relevance and health are questions. Robbins suggests that Donovan Mitchell, with his Cavaliers team potentially finishing first in the East, could be a strong contender.
Which player has the most to prove? Murray points to Mitchell, who earned an All-NBA First Team nod but hasn't won multiple playoff series. He's in his prime at 29, but this might be Cleveland's last chance with him. Guillory agrees, citing Mitchell's postseason performance and the need to reach the conference finals.
Amen Thompson is an X-factor for the Rockets, with a larger role after Fred VanVleet's injury. Franz Wagner and Cam Johnson are also noted for their potential impact. Kon Knueppel and LaMelo Ball's contrasting personalities and styles of play are intriguing. Egor Dёmin and Ace Bailey are mentioned as rising stars.
The discussion also touches on comebacks, with Paul George's potential resurgence and Bradley Beal's perceived value decline. Brandon Ingram's injury-plagued season and his new challenge with the Raptors are also discussed.
The debate highlights the excitement and uncertainty surrounding the upcoming NBA season, with MVP contenders and underdogs alike.
