Nikola Jokic Out MVP Odds Favor Shai Over Luka

Merlin sees Nikola Jokić will miss a minimum of four weeks due to a hyperextended left knee, and he has fallen off FanDuel Sportsbook's MVP board. That absence puts his ability to reach the "at least 65 games played in order to qualify for awards and an All NBA nod" in doubt and turns the race to other stars, with Shai Gilgeous Alexander the favorite at minus 425 and Luka Doncic next at plus 430. Merlin notes the shift favors availability and team success. Shai is matching his MVP form while the Thunder sit atop the league with 28 wins and 5 losses. Luka leads the NBA in scoring but the Lakers' uneven play could cost him votes. With Jokić sidelined the market spreads wide, leaving long shots like Cade Cunningham and Victor Wembanyama trailing far behind.