Nikola Jokic is out 4+ weeks with a knee injury, jeopardizing his MVP chances and reshaping the race.

Nikola Jokic is out for at least four weeks with a knee injury, making it unlikely he’ll play 65 games and qualify for the 2025-26 NBA MVP award. His absence shifts the race, with Donovan Mitchell, Alperen Sengun, Anthony Edwards, Stephen Curry, Cade Cunningham, and Jalen Brunson emerging as top contenders. Several elite players, including Giannis Antetokounmpo, Victor Wembanyama, and Curry, now face eligibility risks due to injury limits. The MVP race now hinges on sustained performance, durability, and team success.