A new league-wide poll has provided a clear answer to one of the NBA’s most debated questions: Who is the best player in the world right now? According to a survey conducted by Stephen Noh of The Sporting News, Nikola Jokic remains the overwhelming choice among media members, scouts, and league insiders.
The results were decisive. Jokic received 35 of 53 votes (66%), well ahead of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander with 10 votes and Victor Wembanyama with eight. Notably, established superstars like Luka Doncic and Giannis Antetokounmpo did not receive a single vote, highlighting a shifting perception among league evaluators despite their individual production.
The timing of the poll adds context. While Gilgeous-Alexander is widely expected to win MVP this season and Wembanyama has surged into award conversations, Jokic continues to be viewed as the most complete player when projecting playoff success. Several voters made a clear distinction between regular-season awards and overall player value.
Nikola Jokic leads poll as voters prioritize playoff impact over MVP race
GettyDenver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic
Jokic’s dominance in the poll reflects how evaluators separate “best player” from MVP criteria. According to Noh, many voters explicitly stated they would not select Jokic as MVP this season, but still consider him the player they trust most in a playoff setting.
One voter described Jokic as “arguably the greatest, most well-rounded offensive player in history,” pointing to his ability to elevate teammates and control the pace of games. Another added that while his recent form has fluctuated following injury, his overall impact remains unmatched when fully healthy.
Statistically, Jokic’s case remains strong. He is averaging 27.7 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 10.7 assists per game, production that stands out even among elite peers. Voters repeatedly cited his versatility and decision-making as key differentiators.
There was also skepticism among some voters about how other candidates would perform in postseason environments. One anonymous voter noted that while Gilgeous-Alexander has been dominant, Oklahoma City’s success is also heavily tied to its defense, whereas “Denver wins playoff series with Jokic.”
The consistency of that viewpoint helped Jokic secure two-thirds of the vote, making him the clear consensus despite finishing behind others in MVP discussions.
Shai and Wemby draw support as Luka Doncic and Giannis are left out
GettyLos Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic
While Jokic led comfortably, Gilgeous-Alexander and Wembanyama still received meaningful support. Gilgeous-Alexander’s backers pointed to his two-way impact, efficiency, and ability to control games, particularly in clutch situations.
“He can create an efficient shot in any situation,” one voter said, emphasizing his offensive versatility and steady production for one of the league’s top teams.
Wembanyama’s case centered on defense. Multiple voters highlighted his historic impact on that end of the floor, with one stating that his defensive presence “completely changes the tenor of games.” The 22-year-old’s ability to anchor both ends has helped push San Antonio into contention, further strengthening his argument.
However, the most surprising takeaway from the poll was the absence of votes for Doncic and Antetokounmpo. Both players remain among the league’s most productive stars, but neither was selected by any of the 53 respondents.
Noh noted that even in key markets tied to those players, they were not seriously considered among the top tier. That suggests a growing consensus that the current “best player” conversation centers on Jokic, Gilgeous-Alexander, and Wembanyama.
The results also reflect how context matters. Injuries, team performance, and late-season momentum all influence perception, especially when evaluators are projecting forward rather than rewarding past production.
As the playoffs approach, the poll offers a snapshot of league sentiment. Jokic may not be the MVP favorite this season, but among those asked, he remains the player most trusted when the stakes are highest.
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