When it comes to the NBA MVP title, the Oklahoma City Thunder star, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, has plenty of support. The Denver Nuggets‘ three-time winner, Nikola Jokic, has some juice in the race but seemingly not enough.
However, if there is one key vote that Jokic has, it’s the former head coach-turned-analyst, Stan Van Gundy.
This week, Van Gundy revealed his awards ballot, which includes Jokic as the MVP winner. On The Zach Lowe Show, Van Gundy revealed his reason why it’s Jokic over Gilgeous-Alexander for him.
“First of all, to lead the league in rebounding and assists, both by healthy margins, it’s ridiculous,” Van Gundy said. “He averages four more assists than Shai, who’s a point guard. Jokic, to me, as the guy who lifts his teammates a little bit more, is the one. With all of the passing, everything runs through him. I think Shai’s a one-on-one guy.”
Denver Nuggets Fans React To Stan Van Gundy’s Vote
GettyPHOENIX, ARIZONA – MARCH 24: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets handles the ball during the second half of the NBA game at Mortgage Matchup Center on March 24, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Nuggets defeated the Suns 125-123. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
As expected, Nuggets fans are thrilled to see the former coach back their top player.
The ballot reveal was shared on Nuggets Reddit, which led to a stack of reactions from fans who want to see Jokic collect his fourth MVP trophy.
“SVG has been insanely glowing of Jokic over the years. He happens to be similar with Wemby, who also is a newer toy,” BigLafa wrote.
“He’s doing things that have never been done before in the 73 year history of the league. And NOT trivial things. Leading the league in assists, rebounds in the same year. Amazing. He def deserves MVP this year,” One-Bag2427 writes.
“I concur ð” said every_other_one1.
“Joker put a lot of NBA analysts on notice after that Spurs win. Like; âyâall mustâve forgot,” titansfan26 said.
“He was humbled at the end and forced to admit the greatness,” rofss commented.
There’s Only One Issue
GettyABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – OCTOBER 04: A detailed view of the jersey of Nikola Jokic of Denver Nuggets during the NBA match between Denver Nuggets and Boston Celtics at Etihad Arena on October 04, 2024 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images)
Van Gundy was on the call last weekend as the Nuggets battled against the San Antonio Spurs. With some critical comments aimed at the multi-time MVP winner, Van Gundy shocked Nuggets fans with his vote. Of course, all is forgiven now.
Really, the only complaint from Denver fans is the absence of Tim Hardaway Jr. on the ballot for Sixth Man of the Year.
Van Gundy would roll with Keldon Johnson there. The other picks include Victor Wembanyama for Defensive Player of the Year, Cooper Flagg for Rookie of the Year, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker for Most Improved Player of the Year.
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