Image Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

5 American Players Poised for a 2025‑26 NBA MVP Run

Image Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

The new NBA season is on the horizon, with training camps just weeks away. The buzz surrounding the predictions for the upcoming season has already started to build up in earnest. In this piece, we will delve into the top 5 frontrunners for the NBA MVP award during the 2025-26 season ahead.

Jalen Brunson – New York Knicks

The 28-year-old was the scoring engine behind that Knicks post-season run. His performance stats from last season included 26.0 points per game, 7.3 assists per game, and 2.9 rebounds per game. The Knicks’ elimination at the hands of the Pacers has ignited a fire under the belly of Brunson.

He also posted a field goal percentage of 48.8 across his appearances in the season. Brunson is more determined to guide his side to post-season glory now that the East is wide open. If fit, Jalen Brunson is expected to take the NBA by storm.

Jalen Brunson & Natalia Bryant in Nike ad for new Kobes 🔥 pic.twitter.com/thADcjg3Nh
— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) August 19, 2025

Cade Cunningham – Detroit Pistons

The Pistons’ performance last season was nothing short of excellence. Their remarkable comeback and unyielding grit took the headlines, but at the heart of it stood an emerging Cade Cunningham poised to claim the spotlight.

He ended up ranking number 7 in the MVP voting during the course of last season’s awards. As Cunningham gradually steps into his prime years, his scoring output is anticipated to head upward significantly. And with a better overall team performance, Cade Cunningham could launch himself at the top of the NBA MVP conversation next season.

Anthony Davis – Dallas Mavericks

The center position player has encountered several injury-related setbacks in the recent past of his career. However, Anthony Davis, when fully fit, ranks as one of the premier defenders throughout the entire league. His MVP chances might be fragile, as the question lingers if Davis will even reach the minimum games required (65) to be considered for MVP or any other award.

This season presents itself as an opportunity for redemption, marking his inaugural full year with the Dallas team. Anthony Davis will aim to show he’s still at the top of his game, capable of leading the team, keeping the Mavericks firmly in the hunt until Kyrie Irving is back, and staying on the floor. Pull that off, and the MVP conversation will take care of itself.

Anthony Edwards – Minnesota Timberwolves

Edwards stands out as yet another rising star in the NBA, and numerous observers think he might soon become the prominent face of the league. His postseason showings against iconic legends such as LeBron James and Steph Curry proved to be truly something remarkable to witness. The youngster is only going to improve from here establishing himself in the MVP debate.

Donovan Mitchell – Cleveland Cavaliers

Donovan Mitchell guided the Cavaliers to an outstanding first seed placement in the Eastern Conference standings. His regular season performances were top-class, however, a scoring dip was seen in the post-season. Mitchell will remain among the key candidates in the MVP race, but his on-court showings will need to exhibit greater consistency overall.