NBA Finals MVP Race 2026: Top Candidates and Predictions
The Finals MVP award goes to the best player in the NBA Finals. It is the most prestigious individual award in basketball because it recognizes performance on the biggest stage. Here are the top candidates for 2026.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
SGA is the favorite. The Thunder have the best record in the West, and SGA is their engine. His midrange game is nearly unguardable, and his defense has reached elite levels. If OKC makes the Finals, SGA will be the best player on the court most nights. His combination of scoring, playmaking, and defense makes him the complete package.
Jayson Tatum
Tatum won his first championship last year but lost the Finals MVP to Jaylen Brown. He has been on a mission all season to prove he is the best player on the Celtics. If Boston returns to the Finals, Tatum will not let the MVP slip away again. He is averaging career highs in points and assists this season.
Nikola Jokic
Jokic won Finals MVP in 2023 and has been the best player in basketball for three straight years. His passing, scoring, and rebounding make him the most unique player in NBA history. If Denver makes the Finals, Jokic will put up historic numbers because that is what he does in the playoffs.
Donovan Mitchell
Mitchell has been the best player in the East this season. His scoring ability in the playoffs is elite, and the Cavaliers have the defense to support a deep run. If Cleveland makes the Finals, Mitchell will be the go-to scorer in crunch time.
Dark horse: Victor Wembanyama
Wembanyama is only in his third season, but his two-way impact is already historic. If the Spurs make a surprise playoff run, Wemby could announce himself on the biggest stage. His combination of shot-blocking, three-point shooting, and playmaking has never been seen before.