Top 5 MVP contenders for the 2022-23 NBA season so far

The NBA MVP race is looking to be an exciting one this season . With several players putting in big performances, it is certain that it could go down the wire.

Giannis Antetokounmpo has been in great form for the Bucks Twitter/Giannis Antetokounmpo
By Godwin Matthew | Nov 15, 2022 | 3 Min Read follow icon Follow Us

The 2022-23 NBA season has been extremely exciting so far. Some unexpected teams have done well, while the star-studded sides like the LA Lakers and Brooklyn Nets have gotten off to a slow start. However, with more than half of the season still left to play, it will be interesting to see how things transpire.

Players like Jayson Tatum, Ja Morant, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Luka Doncic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander have been firing on all cylinders since the season tipped off. With the converted MVP trophy up for grabs, these names will certainly be hoping to continue putting up big performances to get their hands on the reward. With that said, we take a look at the five names that are looking like front-runners for the 2022-23 season MVP trophy.

# 5 Shai Gilgeous- Alexander

The young guard has been fearless in his approach and played some great basketball so far. He has been averaging 31.5 PPG on 53.9% shooting from the field. Although the OKC Thunder have a 6-8 record, Shai’s performances have been stellar. With Chet Holmgren ruled out, this is exactly what the Thunder fans would have expected from Shai. Considering the stacked Western Conference, it looks really tough for the Thunder to make it to the playoffs. However, if they do make it there, the 24-year-old would definitely make a strong push for the MVP trophy.

# 4 Ja Morant

Ja Morant has once again proven that he is one of the most exciting talents in the NBA. The point guard has taken over from where he left off and is averaging 28.8 PPG, 6.0 RPG and 7.0 APG this season. Having made it to the All-NBA and All-Star team last season, the MVP trophy is very well in the plans for Morant. The Grizzlies are currently fourth in the West with a 9-5 record and are looking for yet another great season. If Morant continues to perform at an elite level, the high flyer will definitely be a front runner to be the MVP race.

# 3 Luka Doncic

Luka Doncic has had a historic start to the 2022-23 NBA season. The Slovenian had 9 consecutive games with 30 plus point performances and has been great on the offensive end for the Dallas Mavericks. Luka has been averaging 34.5 PPG, 8.7 RPG and 8.1 APG in 12 appearances. Several analysts have predicted the 23-year-old to get to the MVP trophy this season. However, with the other big named players still in the running to win the coveted prize, Doncic will have to keep playing at a top level.

# 2 Jayson Tatum

Jayson Tatum has been playing some elite level basketball this season. After the disappointment of losing in the NBA Finals, Tatum certainly is on a revenge tour this year. He has been averaging 31.3 PPG and is pretty much navigating the Celtics to another season of brilliance in the East. In just five years since making his way into the league, Tatum has already earned the superstar status. His performances in the Finals was below par, but other than that, he has been splendid for the Celtics since making his way into the league. Boston started off the season with a lot of controversy surrounding Ime Udoka. But with Tatum energizing the team with his attitude and performance, the 24- year- old could be on his way to the MVP trophy.

#1 Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis Antetokounmpo is the only name on the list who has already won the MVP trophy. Every passing year the Greek Freak’s game has ascended into a new level and this year is no different. In just 10 appearances this season, he has averaged 31.3 PPG, 11.8 RPG and 5.2 APG. His brilliance has helped the Milwaukee Bucks get to a flying start. They are second in the East with a 10-3 record and are looking set on making yet another trip to the NBA Finals. Along with his staggering numbers on the offensive end, the Greek Freak has been doing tremendous work on the defensive end as well. He has a defensive rating of 100.1, which is among the very best in the league. Having achieved all the success already, Giannis is well versed with what it takes to win the MVP trophy. Winninag it again would definitely help him to cement his place as an all-time great in basketball.