2026 NBA MVP Odds: SGA vs Joker, Open as MVP Favorites

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2025 NBA MVP Odds

Pick Your
Sportsbook

DraftKings

FanDuel

BetMGM

BetRivers

Caesars

ESPN Bet

Hard Rock

+190

1.9 to 1

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

27.5% implied probability

+300

3 to 1

Nikola Jokic

19.9% implied probability

+350

3.5 to 1

Luka Doncic

17.7% implied probability

+550

5.5 to 1

Giannis Antetokounmpo

12.3% implied probability

+600

6 to 1

Victor Wembanyama

11.4% implied probability

+3500

35 to 1

Cade Cunningham

2.2% implied probability

+5000

50 to 1

Tyrese Maxey

1.6% implied probability

+10000

100 to 1

Alperen Sengun

0.8% implied probability

+10000

100 to 1

Anthony Edwards

0.8% implied probability

+10000

100 to 1

Donovan Mitchell

0.8% implied probability

+15000

150 to 1

Jaylen Brown

0.5% implied probability

+15000

150 to 1

Jalen Brunson

0.5% implied probability

+15000

150 to 1

Kevin Durant

0.5% implied probability

+15000

150 to 1

Josh Giddey

0.5% implied probability

+15000

150 to 1

Stephen Curry

0.5% implied probability

+40000

400 to 1

Paolo Banchero

0.2% implied probability

+50000

500 to 1

Amen Thompson

0.2% implied probability

+50000

500 to 1

Karl-Anthony Towns

0.2% implied probability

+50000

500 to 1

Julius Randle

0.2% implied probability

+50000

500 to 1

LaMelo Ball

0.2% implied probability

+50000

500 to 1

Evan Mobley

0.2% implied probability

+100000

1000 to 1

Jamal Murray

0.1% implied probability

+100000

1000 to 1

Jimmy Butler

0.1% implied probability

+100000

1000 to 1

Cooper Flagg

0.1% implied probability

+100000

1000 to 1

James Harden

0.1% implied probability

+100000

1000 to 1

Scottie Barnes

0.1% implied probability

+100000

1000 to 1

Franz Wagner

0.1% implied probability

+100000

1000 to 1

Anthony Davis

0.1% implied probability

+100000

1000 to 1

Austin Reaves

0.1% implied probability

+100000

1000 to 1

Pascal Siakam

0.1% implied probability

+100000

1000 to 1

Joel Embiid

0.1% implied probability

+100000

1000 to 1

Zion Williamson

0.1% implied probability

+100000

1000 to 1

Ja Morant

0.1% implied probability

+100000

1000 to 1

Devin Booker

0.1% implied probability

+100000

1000 to 1

Domantas Sabonis

0.1% implied probability

+100000

1000 to 1

Bam Adebayo

0.1% implied probability

+100000

1000 to 1

Lauri Markkanen

0.1% implied probability

+100000

1000 to 1

LeBron James

0.1% implied probability

Opening NBA MVP Odds 2025-26

Below are what the NBA MVP odds looked like when the 2025-26 season tipped off.

Player	Team	Odds
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander	Thunder	+160
Nikola Jokic	Nuggets	+300
Luka Doncic	Lakers	+400
Victor Wembanyama	Spurs	+1000
Giannis Antetokounmpo	Bucks	+1400
Anthony Edwards	Timberwolves	+2500
Cade Cunningham	Pistons	+5000
Kevin Durant	Rockets	+7000
Paolo Banchero	Magic	+10000
Jalen Brunson	Knicks	+10000
Donovan Mitchell	Cavaliers	+10000
Joel Embiid	76ers	+15000
Zion Williamson	Pelicans	+15000
Stephen Curry	Warriors	+15000
Trae Young	Hawks	+20000
Anthony Davis	Mavericks	+20000
Jaylen Brown	Celtics	+20000
Devin Booker	Suns	+25000
Alperen Sengun	Rockets	+25000
Ja Morant	Grizzlies	+30000
Karl-Anthony Towns	Knicks	+30000
Evan Mobley	Cavaliers	+40000
LaMelo Ball	Hornets	+40000
Franz Wagner	Magic	+40000
Kawhi Leonard	Clippers	+50000
Lebron James	Lakers	+100000

2025-26 NBA Odds for MVP

MVP odds for each player can differ across various online sports betting apps, which is why it's smart to sign up with multiple sportsbooks and compare odds before placing your bets. Shopping around for the best value is key, and BetMGM often provides competitive odds in this market. Below, we've highlighted FanDuel Sportsbook's NBA MVP odds that we like:

Giannis Antetokounmpo (+1400)
Anthony Edwards (+2500)
Kevin Durant (+10000)

NBA MVP Favorites

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (+160)
Nicola Jokic (+300)
Luka Doncic (+400)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander won the NBA MVP for the 2024-2025 season, handily beating out Nicola Jokic.

Gilgeous-Alexander finished 5th in the voting in 2024 and the OKC Thunder superstar is led them to their first NBA Championship in 2025.

Keep an eye on these favorites as the season winds down and the MVP odds fluctuate.

How the NBA MVP Award is Decided

The NBA MVP award is determined by a panel of sportswriters and broadcasters from the U.S. and Canada, all of whom vote at the conclusion of the regular season. Voters rank their top five MVP candidates, with each vote assigned a point value: 10 points for a first-place vote, 7 points for second place, 5 points for third, 3 points for fourth, and 1 point for fifth. The player with the most total points across all ballots wins the award.

Beyond pure statistics, voters often consider the overall impact a player has had on their team's success. Historically, MVPs tend to come from teams with strong regular-season records, as voters look for players whose performances have translated into wins. The narrative surrounding a player—whether they've overcome adversity or delivered a historic season—can also shape voting outcomes.

Notably, only one player has ever won the MVP award unanimously: Stephen Curry during his record-breaking 2015-2016 season. While it's rare for a player to sweep the voting, the MVP race is always closely watched as it reflects the season's standout performer and most influential figure.

How Do I Bet On NBA MVP Odds?

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NBA MVP Futures Betting

These NBA MVP odds evolve throughout the season, reflecting the changing performances of players and teams. Bettors can wager on the NBA MVP until the award is officially announced, and opportunities to hedge bets arise as the odds shift.

It's important to note that NBA MVP odds differ from NBA Finals MVP odds. The NBA MVP award recognizes the best regular-season player, while the NBA Finals MVP is awarded to the standout player during the Finals.

How to Bet on the NBA MVP

Betting on NBA MVP odds can be a profitable sports betting strategy if you follow a few key principles. Here are our top tips for betting on the 2025 NBA MVP:

Consistent Success in the NBA MVP Race

The NBA MVP is awarded to the player who excels throughout the NBA season. While one player may have a hot streak, it's crucial to evaluate performance over the entire season including all of the ebbs and flows. Don't be swayed by short-term success and be mindful of inconsistencies. Consistency, both in individual stats and overall team contribution, will determine a player's candidacy. Keep a long-term perspective when assessing NBA MVP odds.

Bankroll Management

Strictly managing your NBA sports betting bankroll is crucial when it comes to your profitability as an NBA bettor. Here are some tips to help you along the way.

Set a total budget for the NBA season that you're comfortable risking, ensuring it's not money needed for essentials like bills or rent.
Select a percentage of your bankroll as your betting unit, typically between 1-5%. For example, with a $1,000 bankroll and a 2% unit size, each wager would be $20.
Stick to your bankroll management strategy throughout the season, adjusting your bets based on how your bankroll fluctuates.
You may employ advanced bankroll management systems like the Fibonacci or Martingale, but a steady and disciplined approach is generally more effective for futures betting on NBA MVP odds.

Determine Who Your Favorite Is

Analyze key stats and watch as many games as possible to pinpoint your favorite MVP contender. Look for players who not only shine individually but also significantly impact their team's success. Past MVP winners often share certain traits, like high efficiency, leadership, and team value, especially in their absence. If two top players share the court, both may have reduced MVP chances, so choose wisely.

Choose the Best Sportsbooks

Signing up with multiple sportsbooks allows you to shop around for the best NBA MVP betting odds. By comparing lines across platforms, you ensure you're getting maximum value. Additionally, capitalize on bonuses, welcome offers, and promotions from various sportsbooks to boost your overall bankroll and payout potential.

Watch the Lines

NBA MVP odds fluctuate as the season progresses, creating chances to hedge your bets. For example, if you bet $100 on a player at +800 early in the season, and it becomes clear they're competing with just one other player, you can place a second bet on the other contender. This strategy ensures a profit regardless of who wins, provided you place the right wager at the right time. Always watch for line movements to seize such opportunities.

Follow Our Free Picks

Our expert handicappers here at RotoWire regularly offer free picks on NBA games and futures markets. Follow our seasoned sports bettors for additional insights and analysis that can help inform your betting strategy. Keep an eye on their advice throughout the season to gain an edge on NBA MVP futures and other markets.

Finding Your Sportsbook for NBA MVP Odds

If you are ready to get started betting on NBA MVP odds, the first step is to identify legal sports betting apps licensed to operate in your state. Look for a sportsbook that aligns with your betting style and budget. For example, Caesars Sportsbook is an excellent choice for high-stakes NBA bettors, offering elevated maximum win limits and an outstanding VIP program. On the other hand, DraftKings caters well to casual NBA bettors, featuring low minimum deposits and attractive low-risk bonuses.

Before signing up, ensure that the sportsbook provides your preferred deposit and withdrawal methods. After establishing your account, the next crucial step is to find the sportsbook offering the most favorable odds for the player you intend to bet on. Keep in mind that these odds fluctuate throughout the season as player performances and team dynamics evolve. Therefore, it's wise to register with multiple sportsbooks in your state to consistently secure the best available odds on NBA MVP candidates.

The Best NBA MVP Odds & Promotions

We have reviewed seven of the best sportsbooks in the US to use for betting on NBA MVP odds, each offering enticing sportsbook promos, competitive betting odds and lines, an exceptional user experience, and secure, fast withdrawals when it's time to cash out your winnings.

Here are our top seven sportsbooks for NBA Futures odds and welcome offers.

BetMGM NBA MVP Odds

BetMGM emerges as the best sportsbook for betting on the NBA MVP, presenting enticing odds on multiple contenders, including the current betting favorite Luka Doncic. This sportsbook offers live NBA streaming through its app and website, allowing users to effortlessly monitor the top candidates. With flexible wagering limits that cater to all types of bankrolls.

New users can sign up with the BetMGM bonus code ROTOSPORTS to get $1500 in bonus bets if your first bet loses. The alternate BetMGM bonus code ROTOBG150 gives out $150 in bonus bets for winning a $10 opening wager. This offer is available in Colorado, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

Caesars Sportsbook NBA MVP Odds

Caesars Sportsbook is another fantastic choice for those interested in NBA futures betting, providing aggressive lines and odds and generous upper limits designed for high-stakes bettors looking to risk it all. The sportsbook regularly features odds boosts, showcasing exclusive opportunities for NBA Finals MVP bets.

New users can take advantage of the Caesars Sportsbook promo code ROTODYW to receive (10) 100% Profit Boost Tokens.

Fanatics Sportsbook NBA MVP Odds

Fanatics Sportsbook is an emerging player in the sports betting market, known for its competitive odds and user-friendly interface. Its extensive selection of NBA MVP betting options, combined with regular promotions and a seamless mobile experience, makes it an excellent choice for bettors looking to capitalize on futures markets while enjoying a dynamic betting environment.

On top of the FanCash Rewards program, one of the best loyalty programs in the sports betting space, new users can sign up with the Fanatics Sportsbook promo code to get up to $1,000 in bonus bets.

ESPN BET NBA MVP Odds

While ESPN BET is one of the newest sportsbooks in the US betting market, it still has all of the top sports betting markets and features to satisfy the needs of every bettor.

New users can cash in on an attractive welcome offer with the ESPN BET promo code ROTO that gives them a First Bet Reset for up to $1,000.

FanDuel NBA MVP Odds

FanDuel is one of the most popular NBA sports betting sites in the US. On top of its competitive betting odds and ongoing bonuses and promos, it offers an extensive range of NBA MVP markets and a top-notch mobile app.

New users can take advantage of a generous sign-up bonus with the FanDuel promo code, which allows them to Bet $5 and Get $250 in bonus bets if their first bet wins.

bet365 NBA MVP Odds

bet365 is one of the most popular sportsbooks around the globe. With many bet boosts and early payout features, it is continuing to grow in the US.

New users can take advantage of the bet365 bonus code ROTOWIRE that gives users a Bet $5, Get $100 in bonus bets.

DraftKings NBA MVP Odds

DraftKings Sportsbook is a user-friendly platform that offers a wide range of betting options, including competitive odds on NBA MVP futures. With its low minimum deposit requirement and numerous promotions, it caters to both casual and seasoned bettors, making it a popular choice in the sports betting landscape. DraftKings also hosts a variety of free-to-play NBA contests that provide bonus bets as prizes.

New users can take advantage of an attractive bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets instantly welcome offer with the DraftKings promo code to use to bet on NBA MVP odds today.

Hard Rock Bet NBA MVP Odds

Hard Rock Bet offers an exceptional sports betting experience with competitive odds and a variety of betting markets for NBA Futures. Its user-friendly platform is backed by the reputable Hard Rock brand, providing bettors with a secure environment, attractive promotions, and exclusive bonuses, making it an appealing choice for those looking to wager on MVP futures and stay engaged throughout the NBA season.

New users who register with the Hard Rock Bet promo code can get a bet $5, get $100 in bonus bets welcome offer to use on NBA MVP odds today.

Bet on the NBA MVP Odds for this Season

Betting on NBA MVP odds adds an exhilarating layer of engagement to the entire basketball season, ensuring that every game featuring your selected player feels crucial. This betting avenue can be particularly rewarding, especially if you combine diligent research with savvy betting strategies. By comparing odds across multiple sportsbooks, managing your bankroll wisely, and taking advantage of enticing promotions, you can enhance your potential returns while minimizing risks.

The best way to maximize your chances of success, it's wise to register with several NBA betting sites that feature 2024 NBA MVP odds. By doing so, you'll not only gain access to the most competitive odds and lines but also unlock various welcome offers that can bolster your sports betting bankroll from your bery first bet. Simply click the BET NOW button next to any listed NBA sportsbook on this page to claim the best NBA betting promos so you can bet and win big today.

History of the NBA MVP Award

The NBA MVP Award has a rich history, dating back to its inaugural presentation in the 1955-56 season when Bob Pettit of the St. Louis Hawks was named the league's most valuable player. Since then, the award has become the most prestigious individual honor in basketball, recognizing the standout player of each season.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar holds the record for the most MVP titles with six, while legends like Bill Russell and Michael Jordan each secured five. Nikola Jokic, Wilt Chamberlain, and LeBron James follow closely with four MVPs each. Jokic, in particular, has been dominant in recent years, earning his fourth MVP in 2024.

MVP
YEAR	PLAYER	POS	TEAM	FG%	PPG	RPG	APG	BLKPG
2025	Shai Gilgeous -Alexander	G	Oklahoma City Thunder	.519	32.7	5.0	6.4	1.0
2024	Nikola Jokic	C	Denver Nuggets	.583	26.4	12.4	9.0	0.8
2023	Joel Embiid	C	Philadelphia 76ers	.548	33.1	8.4	4.2	1.7
2022	Nikola Jokic	C	Denver Nuggets	.583	27.1	13.8	7.9	0.9
2021	Nikola Jokic	C	Denver Nuggets	.566	26.4	10.8	8.3	0.7
2020	Giannis Antetokounmpo	F	Milwaukee Bucks	.553	29.5	13.6	5.6	1.0
2019	Giannis Antetokounmpo	F	Milwaukee Bucks	.578	27.7	12.5	5.9	1.5
2018	James Harden	G	Houston Rockets	.449	30.4	5.4	8.8	0.7
2017	Russell Westbrook	G	Oklahoma City Thunder	.425	31.6	10.7	10.4	0.4
2016	Stephen Curry	G	Golden State Warriors	.504	30.1	5.4	6.7	0.2
2015	Stephen Curry	G	Golden State Warriors	.487	23.8	4.3	7.7	0.2
2014	Kevin Durant	F	Oklahoma City Thunder	.503	32.0	7.4	5.5	0.7
2013	LeBron James	F	Miami Heat	.565	26.8	8.0	7.3	0.9
2012	LeBron James	SF	Miami Heat	.531	27.1	7.9	6.2	0.8
2011	Derrick Rose	PG	Chicago Bulls	.445	25.0	4.1	7.7	0.6
2010	LeBron James	SF	Cleveland Cavaliers	.503	29.7	7.3	8.6	1.0
2009	LeBron James	SF	Cleveland Cavaliers	.489	28.4	7.6	7.2	1.1
2008	Kobe Bryant	SF	Los Angeles Lakers	.459	28.3	6.3	5.4	0.5
2007	Dirk Nowitzki	F	Dallas Mavericks	.502	24.6	8.9	3.4	0.8
2006	Steve Nash	PG	Phoenix Suns	.512	18.8	4.2	10.5	0.2
2005	Steve Nash	PG	Phoenix Suns	.502	15.5	3.3	11.5	0.1
2004	Kevin Garnett	PF	Minnesota Timberwolves	.499	24.2	13.9	5.0	2.2
2003	Tim Duncan	C	San Antonio Spurs	.513	23.3	12.9	3.9	2.9
2002	Tim Duncan	C	San Antonio Spurs	.508	25.5	12.7	3.7	2.5
2001	Allen Iverson	SG	Philadelphia 76ers	.420	31.1	3.8	4.6	0.3
2000	Shaquille O'Neal	C	Los Angeles Lakers	.574	29.7	13.6	3.8	3.0
1999	Karl Malone	PF	Utah Jazz	.493	23.8	9.4	4.1	0.6
1998	Michael Jordan	G	Chicago Bulls	.465	28.7	5.8	3.5	0.5
1997	Karl Malone	PF	Utah Jazz	.550	27.4	9.9	4.5	0.6
1996	Michael Jordan	G	Chicago Bulls	.495	30.4	6.6	4.3	0.5
1995	David Robinson	C	San Antonio Spurs	.530	27.6	10.8	2.9	3.2
1994	Hakeem Olajuwon	C	Houston Rockets	.528	27.3	11.9	3.6	3.7
1993	Charles Barkley	F	Phoenix Suns	.520	25.6	12.2	5.1	1.0
1992	Michael Jordan	G	Chicago Bulls	.519	30.1	6.4	6.1	0.9
1991	Michael Jordan	G	Chicago Bulls	.539	31.5	6.0	5.5	1.0
1990	Magic Johnson	F	Los Angeles Lakers	.480	22.3	6.6	11.5	0.4
1989	Magic Johnson	F	Los Angeles Lakers	.509	22.5	7.9	12.8	0.3
1988	Michael Jordan	G	Chicago Bulls	.535	35.0	5.5	5.9	1.6
1987	Magic Johnson	F	Los Angeles Lakers	.522	23.9	6.3	12.2	0.5

Who has the most NBA MVPs?

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is the NBA's all-time leader in MVP awards with six. Michael Jordan and Bill Russell each won the award five times, while Wilt Chamberlain and LeBron James have four MVPs.

Here is the complete list of players who've won the award multiple times:

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar	NBA	6
Michael Jordan	NBA	5
Bill Russell	NBA	5
Wilt Chamberlain	NBA	4
LeBron James	NBA	4
Larry Bird	NBA	3
Julius Erving	ABA	3
Magic Johnson	NBA	3
Moses Malone	NBA	3
Giannis Antetokounmpo	NBA	2
Stephen Curry	NBA	2
Mel Daniels	ABA	2
Tim Duncan	NBA	2
Nikola Jokić	NBA	2
Karl Malone	NBA	2
Steve Nash	NBA	2
Bob Pettit	NBA	2

NBA MVP Odds FAQ

Who is the favorite to win NBA MVP?

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder is the betting favorite to win the 2025-26 NBA MVP award, followed closely by Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets.

What are Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's NBA MVP Odds?

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is +200 at the DraftKings Sportsbook to win his second NBA MVP award. He's +160 at FanDuel.

What are Nikola Jokic's NBA MVP Odds?

Nikola Jokic is +300 to win the NBA MVP award at FanDuel, +240 at DraftKings, and +275 at BetMGM.

Who is most likely to win NBA MVP 2026?

The NBA MVP odds suggest that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the favorite to win the NBA MVP award. He is the betting favorite listed with +200 odds on DraftKings, followed by Nikola Jokic at +240, and Luka Doncic at +320.

How can I legally bet on NBA MVP Odds?

You can legally bet on NBA MVP odds by registering with a licensed online sportsbook in your state. States such as Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Virginia, Vermont, Washington D.C., West Virginia, and Wyoming all feature legal online sportsbooks that provide NBA MVP odds for the 2024-25 season.

Where can I bet on the NBA MVP?

You can bet on NBA MVP odds at licensed and regulated online sportsbooks and betting apps that include BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, FanDuel, DraftKings, ESPN BET, Fanatics Sportsbook, and BetRivers. These platforms provide mobile apps and websites accessible in various states across the US, enabling you to check NBA MVP odds conveniently on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop.

How do you get a MVP in the NBA?

Each year, a panel of sportswriters and broadcasters votes to determine the MVP winner. Voters rank their top five choices, assigning points as follows: 10 points for a first-place vote, seven for second, five for third, three for fourth, and one for fifth. The player with the highest total points is declared the MVP.

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