NBA MVP Betting Odds: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Breaks Wilt Chamberlain's Record, Pulling Away in MVP Race

It's official: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander made NBA history Thursday night. Now, he's the overwhelming favorite to win the NBA MVP. Let's take a look at SGA's season and the current NBA Most Valuable Player award betting odds that include Victor Wembanyama and Nikola Jokić.

(Photo by Joshua Gateley/Getty Images)

On Thursday night, SGA made history, breaking Wilt Chamberlain's record for most consecutive 20-point games in NBA history. That said, he's reached 127 straight games where he's scored at least 20 points. Kevin Durant owns the second-longest active streak at 72 games, which he set ironically while playing for the Oklahoma City Thunder. The next streak is 43 games by Kawhi Leonard (Clippers).

Over the last 127 games, SGA is averaging 32.5 points per game and has recorded 4,127 total points.

"My whole life is consistent. Everything I do," said Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. "From what I eat to when I sleep to my recovery, to my loved ones, everything's consistent."

Chamberlain held the record from 1961–63, and Gilgeous-Alexander's streak began in 2024. The moment came during the third quarter against the Boston Celtics when SGA pump-faked and eventually knocked down a long-range shot over the face of Baylor Scheierman. In the Thunder's victory over Boston, Gilgeous-Alexander finished with 35 points, six rebounds, nine assists, two steals, and three blocks.

Close but no cigar—Bam Adebayo came close to Chamberlain's scoring record of 100 points in a single game, but finished with a second-best 83 points against the Wizards. Either way, it felt inevitable that one of Wilt's records was to be broken.

Still looking for more NBA and sports betting promotions? We have compiled a list of the best sports betting offers here. 

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the Favorite to win the 2025–2026 NBA MVP

The reigning MVP, Gilgeous-Alexander, is the overwhelming favorite to repeat as the NBA's Most Valuable Player. Priced -800 on DraftKings, SGA is the top dog as we have exactly one month until the NBA regular season ends on Apr. 12.

As time winds down, the 65-game rule does apply to MVP qualifications. Gilgeous-Alexander missed 11 games this season and has played in 55 thus far. Wembanyama sat out 15 games, but has played 51 total games. Given that the San Antonio Spurs have 16 games remaining, Wembanyama would have to suit up for 14 of those to be considered.

The same goes for Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokić. Having missed 16 games this season, he's played 51 games. With 15 games remaining, Jokić will have to remain healthy and suit up to be considered for the MVP.

In the event that the 65-game rule prohibits Wembanyama or Jokić from competing for the award, Cade Cunningham (+5000 FanDuel), Jaylen Brown (+15000), and Luka Dončić (+20000) are on the radar, but considered long shots.

Here are the current NBA MVP betting odds. In this article, I will provide my best prediction of which player is likely to take home the award.

2025–2026 NBA Regular Season MVP Betting Odds (FanDuel)

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder): -900
• Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs): +1500
• Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets): +2000
• Cade Cunningham (Detroit Pistons): +5000
• Jaylen Brown (Boston Celtics): +15000
• Luka Dončić (Los Angeles Lakers): +20000
• Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves): +60000
• Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers): +60000
• Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks): +100000
• Kawhi Leonard (Los Angeles Clippers): +100000

Why Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Can Win NBA MVP

It's a popular choice, but it's easy to see why SGA is the frontrunner to win the MVP award. The winner last season, Gilgeous-Alexander, carried the Thunder to an NBA Championship over the Indiana Pacers and was named Finals MVP.

Similarly, Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder own an NBA-best 52-15 record and are riding a current seven-game win streak. SGA has a little more cushion than others, as he's played 55 games this season. That said, he's averaging the second-most points in the NBA with 31.8 PPG.

Now in his eighth NBA season, SGA is putting up 4.5 rebounds and a career-best 6.6 assists per game. Logging 33.6 minutes per game for head coach Mark Daigneault, Gilgeous-Alexander is shooting a career-high 55.4% from the field and 38.3% from beyond the arc.

While he's missed some time due to an abdominal strain, SGA is in line to win this if he stays healthy. Not only has he led his team to a league-best 52 wins, but the Thunder also boasts the top defense in the NBA (106.3). He's done so in several absences of Jalen Williams, Isaiah Hartenstein, Lu Dort, and others.

SGA Broke Wilt Chamberlain's Scoring Record

Considered one of the most complete and clutch players of today's game, there's one word to describe Gilgeous-Alexander: consistent.

Gilgeous-Alexander has been remarkable since returning from injury, averaging 31.5 points, 8.5 assists, 1.2 blocks, 1.8 steals, and shooting 55.5% from the field over the last 10 games. A true three-level scorer, SGA's MVP odds surged after defeating Jokić and the Nuggets on March 9.

Having poured in 35 points, 15 assists, and nine rebounds against an elite Nuggets squad, Gilgeous-Alexander shot an elite 66.7% from the field while completing zero turnovers. If that isn't an MVP-caliber stat line, I don't know what is. Plus, his team is the No. 1 seed overall in a stacked Western Conference. The MVP usually plays on an elite team, and in this case, SGA is next up.

-900 is simply not worth it to bet on SGA to win the MVP. If you were to place $100 on him to win the MVP, you would win $11.11. Therefore, the risk does not outweigh the benefit; the total payout would be $11.11 in profit.

Best Brand

BetMGM Promo

Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win

Get bonus now

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET (Available in the US) 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. See BetMGM.com for Terms. First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. Promotional offers not available in Mississippi, New York, Ontario, or Puerto Rico.

Best Bonus

FanDuel Promo

New Users – Bet $5 Get $250 If Your Bet Wins!

Get bonus now

Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit RG Help . Call 1-888-789-7777 or visit Helpline and Chat – CONNECTICUT COUNCIL (CT). "Hope is here. GamblingHelpLineMA.org or call (800) 327-5050 for 24/7 support. 21+ and present in MA. Connect with a PlayWell Advisor at PlayWell.org. Visit Home (MD). Call 1-877-8HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) 21+ (18+ D.C., KY, WY) and present in select states (for KS, in affiliation with Kansas Star Casino). First online real money wager only. $5 first deposit required. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable bonus bets which expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. See terms at FanDuel Sportsbook

Newcomer

DraftKings Promo

New Customers: Bet $5+ Get $300 in Bonus Bets Instantly

Get bonus now

GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/PR/WY). Void in NH/OR/ONT/PR. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new DraftKings Sportsbook customer. Must register new account to receive reward Token. Must select Token BEFORE placing min. $5 bet to receive $300 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Min. -500 odds req. Token and Bonus Bets are single-use and non-withdrawable. Bet must settle by and Token expires 5/3/26 at 11:59 PM ET. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: Promos | DraftKings Sportsbook . Ends 4/26/26 at 11:59 PM ET.

Other NBA MVP Candidates

Victor Wembanyama (+1500)

There's no doubt that Wembanyama has put together an MVP-caliber season, and one could argue he's next in line to dethrone Gilgeous-Alexander.

Oddsmakers have all but declared SGA the MVP, but could Wemby make a run? In his third NBA season with the Spurs, he's averaging 24.2 points per game, a career-high 11.1 rebounds, 2.9 assists, one steal, and three blocks. In addition, he's shooting a career-best 50.6% from the field and 36% from beyond the arc.

At just 22 years old, Wembanyama is a generational talent and stands at 7'4" tall. I'm not sure if we've ever seen a player like Wembanyama who moves like a guard at his size.

Aforementioned, Wembanyama has missed 15 games and would need to play 14 remaining matchups to be considered for MVP. Let's not forget what he's done this season. Post-Greg Popovich era, Wembanyama and the Spurs own the NBA's second-best record at 48-18, and sit second behind the Thunder in the Western Conference.

We are talking about a 360-degree turnaround for a Spurs team that finished 34-48 and missed out on the playoffs last season.

Could Victor Wembanyama Win the NBA MVP Award?

Wembanyama continues to make a push, as he's averaging 23.7 points, 11 rebounds, 4.2 blocks, and 1.2 steals over the last 10 games. Plus, he led the Spurs to several win streaks, including a massive 11-game streak in early to late February. Enduring just two losses since Feb. 1, Wembanyama averaged 22.5 points, 11.3 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 3.5 blocks over that 11-game win streak. In addition, he posted a 60.8 true shooting percentage while logging 29.4 minutes per game.

During the streak, Wembanyama delivered monstrous performances, including 28 points and 16 rebounds against the Rockets, 40 points and 12 rebounds against the Lakers, and 28 points and 15 rebounds vs. the Kings.

Most recently, he delivered a 39-point, 11-rebound, and 8-15 3-point night against the Boston Celtics on Tuesday.

There's no question Wemby is considered, especially given the Spurs' state.  His defensive prowess is second-to-none, and for +1500 odds, you can earn $166.67 off of a $100 wager. I do think some inconsistencies, along with missed games, will keep Wemby behind SGA, for now. I do think the future is bright and that Wembanyama will be involved in MVP talks for years to come.

Nikola Jokić (+2000)

Jokić may be the best player in the world. An NBA champion with the Nuggets, the three-time MVP is in the race once again.

As mentioned previously, Jokić missed 16 games this season after suffering a hyperextended left knee.

The Serbian star has the most 30/20/10 games over the last FIFTY years. A triple-double machine, he's one of the most elite basketball players in the world.

It's truly hard to fade a player to win the MVP who's recorded three 30/20/10 games this season. On Dec. 27, Jokić erupted for 34 points, 21 rebounds, and 12 assists against the Orlando Magic.

He did it again, exploding for 35 points, 20 rebounds, and 12 assists against the Golden State Warriors on Feb. 22.

On Thursday night, he did it once more, this time putting up 31 points, 20 rebounds, 12 assists, two blocks, and three steals against Wembanyama and the Spurs.

Are the books sleeping on Jokić? The Nuggets hold the NBA's eighth-best record at 41-26 and sit No. 5 in the Western Conference. That said, Jokić is the only NBA player who's averaging a triple-double on the season.

Leading the NBA in rebounds (12.7 RPG) and assists (10.4 APG), Jokić is averaging 28.7 points per game, shooting 57.3% from the field, and 38.9% from three.

Following his historic night, Jokic continues to set records as one of the most elite big men to ever play the game.  Passing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Jokić is averaging more points and assists compared to his three previous MVP wins.

It's unlikely player stats are to move heavily in the final 15 games unless you're Bam Adebayo.

If Jokić wants to win this, he must stay healthy and keep up his incredible stretch of gameplay. That said, he will be tasked with leading the Nuggets up the ladder in the West. Sitting 11 games back of the Thunder for the top spot, Denver will compete with the Spurs, Lakers, and Rockets for a higher seed.

NBA MVP Long Shots

Cade Cunningham (+5000)

Cunningham has undoubtedly turned around the Pistons franchise, and the Motor City is back in playoff contention. Holding the NBA's third-best record of 47-18, the Pistons sit atop the Eastern Conference.

Cunningham is chasing the assist leader (Jokić), averaging 10 assists per game, along with 24.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.4 steals. While his scoring and shooting percentages are down from last season, his impact on this team's turnaround is profound. Although Detroit has an easier strength of schedule down the stretch, there's a possibility that Jayson Tatum and the Celtics can pass Detroit as the No.1 seed.

Betting on Cunningham to win MVP is risky. If you were to place $100 on him to win MVP, you would win $5,000. Although unlikely, it sounds nice, right? I always encourage low unit placement on these types of bets.

Jaylen Brown (+15000)

Brown has been the talk of the town all season long. He's been the leader of the Celtics this season and stepped up in a crucial way without Jayson Tatum. Tatum, who tore his Achilles tendon last year, is back. However, let's give Brown his flowers. The C's hold a 41-22 record without Tatum this season.

The Celtics hold the NBA's fourth-best record at 43-23 and sit 4.5 games back of the Pistons for the top seed in the East. With Brown leading this way, this is a top-five team on both sides of the ball. Ranking second in offensive rating (119.7), Boston ranks fifth in defensive rating (111.9).

Subsequently, Brown silenced his biggest critics and is averaging career-highs in points (28.4 PPG), rebounds (7.1 RPG), and assists (5.2 APG). Through 59 games, Brown is shooting 47.9% from the field and  34.7% from beyond the arc. A strong, versatile guard, we've seen JB put up some monstrous performances.

A player who impacts the box score in multiple ways, Brown exploded for  41 points, eight rebounds, and four assists against the Pacers. Recently, he erupted for 34 points and displayed a two-way performance against the Thunder. But riding a two-game skid, those losses put Brown out of contention at this time.

The Celtics would have to keep winning, and Brown would have to play out of his mind to win the MVP. If you were to bet $100 on this, you could win $15,000. While Brown's year has been admirable, I would avoid betting on him.

Luka Dončić (+20000)

Dončić might be the most talked-about person in the MVP conversation. He's embraced his role since being traded to the Lakers and has led them to a 41-25 record. Good for No. 3 in the West, Luka is the clear leader of this team, alongside LeBron James.

Not only does Dončić lead the NBA with 32.9 points per game, but he's also coming off a 51-point, 10-rebound, nine-assist, and three-steal performance against the Bulls. Riding a four-game win streak, the Lakers are hot, but why is Dončić priced so high to win MVP?

I do think Dončić deserves more MVP talk and has played in 54 games this season. Luka would have to stay healthy down the stretch, and the Lakers don't exactly have the easiest schedule.

Sure, his MVP odds dipped due to injury, but one could argue his numbers are as strong as anyone's.  I don't see the Lakers taking over the top seed, but Dončić's odds could surge if they keep winning. In addition, Dončić is averaging 7.9 rebounds, 8.5 assists, and 1.5 steals. This season, he's shooting 47.5% from the field and 36.7% from beyond the arc.

I do think there's value here, but it's risky. If you were to bet $100 on Dončić, you would win $20,000. While he may not win it this year, I wouldn't be surprised if he keeps climbing the NBA MVP ladder.