{"id":448846,"date":"2026-02-02T08:53:20","date_gmt":"2026-02-02T08:53:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/448846\/"},"modified":"2026-02-02T08:53:20","modified_gmt":"2026-02-02T08:53:20","slug":"nba-updated-mvp-ladder-as-of-january-31-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/448846\/","title":{"rendered":"NBA: Updated MVP ladder as of January 31, 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"

As of January 31, 2026, the NBA MVP race is beginning to separate into clear tiers, with elite production, team success, and availability all playing decisive roles. This updated MVP ladder<\/a> reflects not just raw statistics, but sustained impact, recent momentum, and how each star has carried their team through the heart of the season. With injuries, eligibility thresholds, and shifting standings in play, the race remains fluid despite a defined frontrunner.<\/p>\n

1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander \u2014 Oklahoma City Thunder\"1.<\/p>\n

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) in the fourth quarter against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Last week\u2019s ranking: No. 1<\/p>\n

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Season stats: 32.0 PTS, 4.4 REB, 6.2 AST
Narrative: Shai remains the anchor of the Thunder\u2019s MVP case and the reigning frontrunner in this repeat bid. He\u2019s been delivering elite scoring night after night while guiding OKC to one of the league\u2019s best records \u2014 his efficiency and leadership underpin the Thunder\u2019s identity. A 47-point explosion earlier in the week reminded the league that he can tilt games at will, even in a loss. With the Thunder positioned as a true Western contender, Gilgeous-Alexander\u2019s clutch scoring and quiet defensive growth only strengthen his resume.<\/p>\n

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2. Luka Doncic \u2014 Los Angeles Lakers\"2.<\/p>\n

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) during the second quarter against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Last week\u2019s ranking: No. 3<\/p>\n

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Season stats: 33.6 PTS, 8.7 REB, 7.7 AST
Narrative: Luka\u2019s ascent to No. 2 reflects one of the most prolific offensive seasons in recent memory. He leads the NBA in scoring and is among the top guards in both assists and rebounding \u2014 a true triple-threat. Over his last several games, he\u2019s posted a remarkable string of all-around efforts, including a 46-point barrage that helped vault the Lakers forward. If Denver\u2019s Jokic slips further due to eligibility issues, Don\u010di\u0107 could realistically push Gilgeous-Alexander for the top spot as the Lakers improve their standing.<\/p>\n

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3. Nikola Jokic \u2014 Denver Nuggets\"3.<\/p>\n

Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) before the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Ball Arena. Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Last week\u2019s ranking: No. 2<\/p>\n

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Season stats: 29.6 PTS, 12.2 REB, 11.0 AST
Narrative: Even with recent injury setbacks, Joki\u0107 remains one of the most statistically dominant players in the NBA \u2014 averaging a triple-double is simply \u201cJoker being Joker.\u201d His best single-game efforts still overwhelm most of his MVP rivals, and his all-around impact on Denver\u2019s success is unquestioned. However, the looming 65-game minimum for award eligibility places his candidacy in a precarious spot; any further missed games could remove him from the Ladder entirely. If he stays healthy and eligible after his return, he\u2019ll remain a perennial threat on both ends.<\/p>\n

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4. Victor Wembanyama \u2014 San Antonio Spurs\"4.<\/p>\n

San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) pumps his fist in the second half against the Orlando Magic at Frost Bank Center. Credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Last week\u2019s ranking: No. 4<\/p>\n

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Season stats: 24.3 PTS, 11.2 REB, 2.7 BLK
Narrative: Wembanyama\u2019s unique two-way skill set makes him elite even on nights when shooting isn\u2019t falling. His rim protection and offensive creativity have grown markedly, and a recent 28-point, 16-rebound demonstration reminded the league of his superstar potential. Spurs success is tightly coupled with his availability and minutes, which makes continued growth essential. At just 21, his blend of shot-blocking and scoring could vault him even higher with better team results.<\/p>\n

5. Jaylen Brown \u2014 Boston Celtics\"5.<\/p>\n

Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) controls the ball while Milwaukee Bucks guard Ryan Rollins (13) defends during the second half at TD Garden. Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Last week\u2019s ranking: No. 6<\/p>\n

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Season stats: 29.4 PTS, 6.8 REB, 4.9 AST
Narrative: Brown has emerged as the Celtics\u2019 go-to star in Tatum\u2019s absence, showcasing career highs across multiple categories. His efficiency and scoring volume have been critical to Boston staying afloat in a competitive Eastern Conference. Brown\u2019s peripheral stats \u2014 rebounds, assists, defensive versatility \u2014 add to his case in ways that traditional numbers sometimes undervalue. If the Celtics secure a top seed, Brown\u2019s MVP stock will benefit even more.<\/p>\n

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6. Cade Cunningham \u2014 Detroit Pistons\"6.<\/p>\n

Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) dribbles defended by Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Saraf (77) in the second half at Little Caesars Arena. Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Last week\u2019s ranking: 7<\/p>\n

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Narrative: Cunningham continues to elevate the Pistons with his elite distribution and scoring creativity \u2014 one of the most complete offensive point-guard seasons in the league. Detroit\u2019s surprising success is tightly linked to his ability to orchestrate both pick-and-roll depth and spot scoring when needed. While not as flashy on the stat sheet as others above him, Cunningham\u2019s impact lies in efficiency and team trajectory. Sustained production in crunch time could make him a sleeper MVP candidate down the stretch.<\/p>\n

7. Donovan Mitchell \u2014 Cleveland Cavaliers\"7.<\/p>\n

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) stands during the singing of the national anthem before a game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center. Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Last week\u2019s ranking: not ranked
Narrative: Mitchell\u2019s scoring and leadership remain the Cavs\u2019 central pillars amid a tumultuous season. He\u2019s posting career-level numbers and keeping Cleveland competitive even when roster support fluctuates. That consistency and volume, paired with his All-Star nod, underline a strong case for MVP consideration. If the Cavaliers continue to outperform expectations, Mitchell\u2019s narrative gains gravitas.<\/p>\n

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8. Tyrese Maxey \u2014 Philadelphia 76ers\"8.<\/p>\n

Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey (0) reacts to his teams three pointer against the New Orleans Pelicans during the fourth quarter at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Last week\u2019s ranking: 5<\/p>\n

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Narrative: Maxey\u2019s combination of scoring punch and playmaking has made him one of the league\u2019s most dynamic guards \u2014 especially in clutch situations. He\u2019s capable of taking over games from beyond the arc or in transition, and his defensive activity adds to his overall value profile. The Sixers\u2019 mid-season surge, coupled with Maxey\u2019s All-Star starter status, solidifies his case even if he\u2019s not in the very top echelon. Continued production in Philly\u2019s key wins will keep him relevant.<\/p>\n

9. Anthony Edwards \u2014 Minnesota Timberwolves\"9.<\/p>\n

Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) reacts during the fourth quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Last week\u2019s ranking: 8
Narrative: Edwards\u2019 explosive scoring and athleticism have been indispensable for Minnesota\u2019s offensive identity. His ability to hit deep shots and finish at the rim makes him one of the most electrifying offensive players in the league. However, team consistency and defensive lapses have slightly dampened his MVP positioning. If he can elevate the Timberwolves up the standings, Edwards could make a late push up the Ladder.<\/p>\n

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10. Jamal Murray \u2014 Denver Nuggets\"10.<\/p>\n

Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (27) reacts from the bench in the fourth quarter against the Brooklyn Nets at Ball Arena. Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Last week\u2019s ranking: (likely No. 10)<\/p>\n

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Narrative: Murray provides Denver with steady scoring and secondary playmaking, particularly with Jokic\u2019s status in flux. His clutch shot-making and ability to create off the bounce alleviate pressure on Denver\u2019s offense. While not a traditional MVP candidate based on stats alone, his influence on Nuggets success in Jokic\u2019s absence keeps him in the conversation. A late-season surge by Denver would bolster his case further.<\/p>\n

Conclusion\"Conclusion\"<\/p>\n

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) controls the ball as Denver Nuggets guard Julian Strawther (3) guards in the fourth quarter at Ball Arena. Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

With more than half the season complete, the MVP conversation is sharpening, but far from settled. While a few stars have established themselves at the top, late-season surges, team ascents, or missed games could dramatically reshape the ladder in the coming weeks. As the playoff push intensifies, every performance now carries outsized weight in determining who ultimately claims the league\u2019s most prestigious individual honor.<\/p>\n

The post NBA: Updated MVP ladder as of January 31, 2026<\/a> appeared first on The Big Lead<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"As of January 31, 2026, the NBA MVP race is beginning to separate into clear tiers, with elite…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":448847,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[434],"tags":[36999,24613,1222,6996,49,24617,48,2357,2898,8028,2358,184910,5720,21091,134191,5722,8231,12887,15718,8216,14102,459,8214,2901,3555,15716,1528,6683,14338,2696,184909,6691,82,19746,21217],"class_list":["post-448846","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-nba","tag-anthony-edwards","tag-ben-saraf","tag-boston-celtics","tag-brooklyn-nets","tag-ca","tag-cade-cunningham","tag-canada","tag-cleveland-cavaliers","tag-denver-nuggets","tag-detroit-pistons","tag-donovan-mitchell","tag-isaiah-j-downing-imagn","tag-jamal-murray","tag-jaylen-brown","tag-jokic","tag-julian-strawther","tag-los-angeles-lakers","tag-luka-doncic","tag-memphis-grizzlies","tag-milwaukee-bucks","tag-minnesota-timberwolves","tag-nba","tag-new-orleans-pelicans","tag-new-york-knicks","tag-oklahoma-city-thunder","tag-orlando-magic","tag-philadelphia-76ers","tag-portland-trail-blazers","tag-ryan-rollins","tag-san-antonio-spurs","tag-season-stats","tag-shai-gilgeous-alexander","tag-sports","tag-tyrese-maxey","tag-victor-wembanyama"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/448846","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=448846"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/448846\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/448847"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=448846"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=448846"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=448846"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}