NBA releases 2026-27 Kia MVP Ladder Watchlist with 10 contenders

The NBA released its 2026-27 Kia MVP Ladder Watchlist, featuring 10 players vying for the league’s top individual honor. Nikola Jokić and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander head the list of established stars and emerging contenders.

Jokić’s Consistency, Shai’s Prime

The 31-year-old, leading the 2020s in scoring, rebounds, and assists, could become the first player in NBA history to finish top two for seven straight seasons. Nikola Jokić remains a frontrunner.

Shai, entering his prime, has already secured back-to-back MVPs. The Thunder’s star maintains a high level of consistency and efficiency (31 points on 53% shooting over the last four seasons) while maintaining a 55-plus win ceiling for Oklahoma City. Despite voter fatigue concerns, his consistency and the Thunder’s aspirations position him as a top contender. The Association: SGA chasing 3rd NBA MVP highlights his momentum, though the 2026-27 race may see stiffer competition than previous years.

Cunningham, Wembanyama Emerge as Contenders

Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons emerges as a dark horse. If the Pistons secure the East’s best record, Cunningham’s leadership and growth—evident in his fifth-place MVP finish last season—could propel him into the conversation. The 2026-27 season hinges on his ability to elevate a team expected to compete for most wins in the East, if not the NBA.

Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs is another rising force. The forward, already a two-way player, is projected to lead the league in blocks. He also aims to finish among the top rebounders. The Spurs’ 55-60 win projection and Wembanyama’s offensive development make him a strong candidate. However, concerns persist about potential minutes restrictions, which could impact his statistical dominance.

Giannis, Mitchell Lead East Contenders

Giannis Antetokounmpo, a two-time MVP, remains a key figure in the MVP conversation. His back-to-back wins led to top-four finishes in the next five seasons. Meanwhile, Donovan Mitchell of the Cleveland Cavaliers is positioned as a top option for a team aiming for the East’s top seed.

The East’s depth is further amplified by the Boston Celtics’ Jayson Tatum, who returns to the MVP conversation after being a top-10 candidate two years ago. As the NBA notes, the competition for MVP, once again, should be dramatic, maybe right up until the final month.

Broader Range of Contenders

Beyond the top names, the list includes Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown, and Tyrese Haliburton—players with recent MVP buzz. The inclusion of Kawhi Leonard, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry highlights the league’s star-studded depth. However, the text notes that players must build toward consideration for the award, narrowing the field to those with sustained excellence.

As the 2026-27 season nears, the Kia MVP Ladder Watchlist shows a mix of tradition and new talent. Jokić’s consistency, Shai’s dominance, and the emergence of Wembanyama and Cunningham promise a high-stakes season. The first official rankings will release on November 6, clarifying the race’s direction.