Rachel Nichols Snubs Lakers' Luka Doncic For MVP

Rachel Nichols told Sports Illustrated's Open Floor podcast she will not give Luka Dončić a first-place MVP vote, arguing the award is a full-season, two-way honor and that defense matters. Nichols praised Luka's improvements and said "So am I going to vote him my No. 1 for MVP? No. Is he going to be on my ballot? Absolutely." Dončić leads the league with 33.7 points while adding 8.2 assists and 7.8 rebounds, but Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Victor Wembanyama sit ahead in the race thanks to team success and efficiency. Merlin sees the split: Luka’s individual wizardry is undeniable, but voters reward sustained defense and winning. Gilgeous-Alexander rides the best record and top efficiency, making him the safer choice. Expect voters to weigh team context over flash before the final ballots.