Mannix Criticizes Luka Doncic's Defense in MVP Race

Sports Illustrated writer says Doncic's defensive struggles can't be overlooked in MVP voting.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 12:09pm

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A conceptual illustration depicting Luka Doncic's basketball movements and defensive play broken down into fragmented, geometric shapes and planes, reflecting the analytical and critical nature of the debate around his MVP candidacy.Mannix's critique of Doncic's defense sparks debate over the criteria for NBA MVP.Los Angeles Today

Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic's slip in the MVP rankings has sparked major debate, with his defensive performance cited as one of the reasons. Sports Illustrated writer and MVP voter Chris Mannix did not include Doncic among his top four candidates and harshly criticized his defense.

Why it matters

Doncic is one of the NBA's most dominant offensive players, but Mannix argues that defense must also be considered in the MVP race. This highlights the ongoing discussion around what criteria should be prioritized when selecting the league's most valuable player.

The details

Mannix pointed to Doncic's defensive data and said, "I can't ignore the defensive deficiencies." He emphasized that defense is a key factor in determining the MVP, and listed his top four candidates as Giannis Antetokounmpo, Joel Embiid, Jayson Tatum, and Nikola Jokic.

  • Doncic is averaging 33.7 points, 8.2 assists, 7.8 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game this season.
  • The Lakers are 48-26 and ranked third in the Western Conference.

The players

Luka Doncic

Los Angeles Lakers superstar and one of the NBA's most dominant offensive players.

Chris Mannix

Sports Illustrated writer and MVP voter who did not include Doncic among his top four MVP candidates.

Giannis Antetokounmpo

One of Mannix's top four MVP candidates.

Joel Embiid

One of Mannix's top four MVP candidates.

Jayson Tatum

One of Mannix's top four MVP candidates.

Nikola Jokic

One of Mannix's top four MVP candidates.

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What they’re saying

“I can't ignore the defensive deficiencies.”

— Chris Mannix, Sports Illustrated Writer

“Defense has to be a factor in determining the MVP.”

— Chris Mannix, Sports Illustrated Writer

The takeaway

This debate highlights the ongoing discussion around what criteria should be prioritized when selecting the NBA's Most Valuable Player. While Doncic's offensive dominance is undeniable, Mannix argues that his defensive performance must also be considered, underscoring the complex and multifaceted nature of the MVP award.