Nichols Explains Why Dončić Won't Win NBA MVP

Sportscaster Rachel Nichols reveals her vote for the 2026 NBA MVP award, sparking debate over defensive play and player value.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 6:05am

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NBA MVP voting is a contentious topic, and Rachel Nichols' decision not to give Luka Dončić a first-place vote has generated significant interest. Nichols, a sportscaster and MVP voter, believes Dončić's defensive liabilities have been overlooked, raising questions about the criteria for the award and the importance of two-way play.

Why it matters

Nichols' perspective highlights the subjective nature of MVP voting and the ongoing debate about the balance between offensive and defensive contributions. As voters cast their ballots, they must carefully consider a player's overall impact on the court, not just their statistical dominance.

The details

Nichols acknowledges Dončić's offensive brilliance but argues that his defensive shortcomings should be factored into the MVP equation. This raises the question of whether defensive play should be a significant consideration in determining the league's most valuable player.

  • The 2026 NBA MVP award will be announced in late April.

The players

Luka Dončić

A star guard for the Los Angeles Lakers who is considered a frontrunner for the 2026 NBA MVP award.

Rachel Nichols

A sportscaster and NBA MVP voter who has sparked debate with her decision not to give Dončić a first-place vote.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The Oklahoma City Thunder guard who has emerged as a strong MVP candidate due to his team's success and impressive individual statistics.

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What they’re saying

“MVP is a full-season award, and Dončić's defensive efforts have been a point of contention.”

— Rachel Nichols, Sportscaster and NBA MVP Voter

What’s next

As voters continue to deliberate on the 2026 NBA MVP award, the debate over the criteria for the honor and the balance between offensive and defensive play will likely continue to be a topic of discussion.

The takeaway

Nichols' perspective highlights the complex and subjective nature of MVP voting, where voters must weigh a player's overall impact on the court, not just their statistical dominance. This debate underscores the importance of considering both offensive and defensive contributions when determining the league's most valuable player.