Nuggets vs. Thunder: Jokic's Last Chance to Catch Gilgeous-Alexander in MVP Race

Monday's matchup between the Nuggets and Thunder could be Nikola Jokic's final opportunity to gain ground on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the NBA MVP race.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The highly anticipated matchup between the Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday night features a potential preview of the Western Conference Finals as well as a showdown between the top two contenders for the NBA MVP award - Nikola Jokic of the Nuggets and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Thunder. Jokic, the reigning two-time MVP, is looking to catch Gilgeous-Alexander, the current favorite, but may be running out of time as ballots are submitted in mid-April.

Why it matters

This game represents a critical moment in the NBA MVP race, as Jokic attempts to make up ground on Gilgeous-Alexander, who has emerged as the frontrunner. The outcome of this head-to-head matchup could sway voters' perceptions and ultimately determine the winner of the prestigious award.

The details

Jokic is having another dominant statistical season, averaging a triple-double of 28.8 points, 12.5 rebounds and 10.3 assists. However, he has missed 16 games, putting his eligibility in jeopardy. Gilgeous-Alexander, on the other hand, has missed just 12 games and is on the verge of tying Wilt Chamberlain's record of 126 consecutive games with at least 20 points. The Thunder have won both matchups against the Nuggets this season, with Gilgeous-Alexander averaging 35.0 points and 11.0 assists, while Jokic has averaged just 19.5 points.

  • Jokic has missed 16 games this season, putting his eligibility in jeopardy.
  • Gilgeous-Alexander has missed 12 games and is on the verge of tying Wilt Chamberlain's record of 126 consecutive games with at least 20 points.
  • The Nuggets and Thunder play one more time near the end of the regular season on April 10, but most MVP ballots will be submitted around mid-April.

The players

Nikola Jokic

The reigning two-time NBA MVP, currently averaging a triple-double of 28.8 points, 12.5 rebounds and 10.3 assists per game for the Denver Nuggets.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The current favorite to win the NBA MVP award, the Oklahoma City Thunder guard is on the verge of tying Wilt Chamberlain's record of 126 consecutive games with at least 20 points.

Chet Holmgren

The Thunder's rookie center, who is questionable to play in Monday's game against the Nuggets.

Isaiah Hartenstein

The Thunder's backup center, who is out for Monday's game against the Nuggets.

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What’s next

The Nuggets and Thunder play one more time near the end of the regular season on April 10, but most MVP ballots will be submitted around mid-April, so this matchup on Monday could be Jokic's last chance to make a strong impression on voters.

The takeaway

This game between the Nuggets and Thunder represents a critical moment in the NBA MVP race, as Jokic tries to make up ground on Gilgeous-Alexander, the current favorite. The outcome of this head-to-head matchup could sway voters' perceptions and ultimately determine the winner of the prestigious award.