Every NBA season brings its own set of excitement and speculation, and 2024 is no different. When it comes to predicting the NBA MVP for 2024, several names come to mind, each with their unique strengths and stats. This year, more than any other, feels wide open.
Look at Luka Dončić. His last season’s averages of 28.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8 assists per game are nothing short of stellar. He’s only 24, but his impact on the game is already historic. It’s almost like he’s been chiseled out of the same stone as the all-time greats. The way he plays, with such a high basketball IQ and a knack for clutch performances, makes him a legitimate MVP candidate. Plus, with the Dallas Mavericks tailoring their roster to his strengths, Luka could very well be the favorite.
Then you have the reigning MVP, Nikola Jokić. Last year, he averaged 26.9 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 8.3 assists. Not only is he a statistical monster, but his role in the Denver Nuggets’ system as a point-center is something we rarely see in the league. His efficiency rating stands at a whopping 31.3, which leads the NBA. When you consider Jokić’s influence on his team’s success, it’s hard to count him out.
Kevin Durant is another player who can’t be overlooked. Despite battling injuries, Durant still managed to average 28.9 points per game with a shooting percentage of 52.4. His ability to score at will and lead his team in crucial moments has always been his forte. With the Phoenix Suns aiming for a deep playoff run, Durant’s performance will be under the spotlight, giving him a prime opportunity to claim the MVP title.
And let’s not forget Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Greek Freak posted epic numbers last season: 29.9 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game. His defensive skills further elevate his candidacy, as he remains one of the premier shot-blockers and defenders in the league. He led the Milwaukee Bucks to an NBA-best 58–24 record, illustrating his immense value to his team’s success. Giannis doesn’t just dominate; he obliterates every stat line.
For those keen on a dark horse, Ja Morant always brings electricity to the court. At just 23, Morant’s explosive style and stats—27.4 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game last season—make him a fascinating contender. If the Memphis Grizzlies make a strong playoff push, Morant will undoubtedly be a major reason why. It’s players like him that keep fans glued to their seats, wondering what highlight play they might witness next.
Joel Embiid, Philly’s tower of power, is another player worth mentioning. Averaging 30.6 points and 11.7 rebounds, his dominance down low coupled with his improved outside shooting adds a unique versatility rarely seen at the center position. Embiid functions as the 76ers’ offensive anchor and defensive stalwart, embodying the all-around player that makes an MVP.
If you consider the trajectory of younger stars like Jayson Tatum, it’s easy to see why Boston fans are optimistic. Tatum’s 26.7 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game are impressive, and his ability to step up in clutch moments only adds to his MVP case. With the Celtics being perennial contenders, Tatum is in an excellent position to claim the MVP if he continues his upward trend.
An equally compelling case can be made for Devin Booker. His ascendancy as one of the league’s best shooting guards is well-documented. Posting an average of 26.8 points and 4.8 assists per game, Booker’s immense talent and scoring ability are a headline story. With the Phoenix Suns emerging as a formidable team, every piece of Booker’s performance will be scrutinized under the MVP lens.
Of course, it’s worth mentioning that analytics play an increasingly significant role in this discussion. Advanced metrics like Player Impact Estimate (PIE), Value Over Replacement Player (VORP), and True Shooting Percentage (TS%) mean that we can evaluate players more comprehensively than ever before. For example, according to PIE, an indicator that measures a player’s overall statistical contribution, both Giannis and Luka are at the top of the league.
Moreover, injuries will always loom large over any MVP prediction. Take the case of Anthony Davis. When healthy, his averages of 23.2 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 3.1 assists are significant numbers that resonate deeply in the MVP conversation. However, his history of injuries makes his candidacy speculative at best. The “if only he stays healthy” caveat applies to more players than fans would like to admit.
So, who will claim the esteemed MVP title in 2024? One thing’s for sure: the competition is fierce, the talent pool is deep, and the narratives are compelling. Whether it’s the rise of a young star or the sustained excellence of a seasoned veteran, this NBA season will undoubtedly deliver drama, excitement, and extraordinary performances. In the end, only time will reveal who among these luminaries will be crowned the Most Valuable Player.