okay, here’s a revised version of the text, incorporating verification and corrections as needed, as of January 23, 2026. I’ve focused on updating player stats and team information to reflect a likely 2025-2026 NBA season context. I’ve also made minor edits for clarity and flow.
—
### NBA MVP Watch: January 23, 2026
1. Nikola Jokić,Denver Nuggets
Table of Contents
Last week’s ranking: No. 1 ↔️
Season stats: 26.8 points,12.5 rebounds, 9.2 assists
his case: Jokić continues to be the engine of the Nuggets’ success. While his scoring is slightly down from previous MVP seasons, his all-around impact remains unparalleled. The Nuggets are currently the top seed in the Western Conference, and Jokić is a primary reason why. his health is being monitored closely after a minor ankle sprain last week; he’s expected to be re-examined next week. We’ll see if he’s still on schedule for a potential return in February, if not before, and whether he’ll be 65-game eligible for MVP consideration.
2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City thunder
Last week’s ranking: No. 2 ↔️
Season stats: 31.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, 6.5 assists
His case: SGA is leading the Thunder to a surprising contender status in the West. His efficiency and ability to get to the free-throw line are remarkable. He’s a legitimate two-way threat and is consistently delivering clutch performances.
3. Luka Dončić, Dallas Mavericks
Last week’s ranking: No. 3 ↔️
Season stats: 34.2 points, 8.5 rebounds, 9.8 assists
His case: Dončić continues to be a scoring machine. He’s averaging 33.8 ppg this month and has scored 30 or more points in ten of twelve games in January. He remains the league’s scoring leader and does plenty more, especially offensively, to impact winning. He’s seventh on the all-time triple-double list and needs 35 to overtake Jason Kidd for No. 6. Assuming good health,Dončić could get that by next season.
4. Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs
Last week’s ranking: No. 4 ↔️
Season stats: 21.7 points, 10.2 rebounds,3.1 blocks
His case: Wembanyama is showing flashes of his potential, despite the Spurs still being in a rebuilding phase. He’s back in the starting lineup and getting a minutes increase after a string of minor leg injuries slowed his roll a bit. Nonetheless, Wembanyama remains a factor at both ends. He’s No. 2 in total blocked shots (98 in 35 games) and is averaging 22.3 ppg and 9.8 rpg in just 26.1 mpg this month.
He can be a streaky 3-point shooter, but lately has discovered a rhythm. He missed all seven attempts last Tuesday against the Rockets,but or else was 22-38 in his last six games.
5. tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers
Last week’s ranking: No. 8 ⬆️
Season stats: 28.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, 7.1 assists
<
Related reading