As the NBA season heads into its second month, it’s tempting to jump to conclusions about which teams and players will dominate the year. Sure, we’re only 18.6% into the 82-game grind, and there’s still plenty of basketball to be played, but the first month provides a valuable snapshot of where things stand. Rookies are adjusting, teams are finding their rhythm, and a handful of players have already set themselves apart.
Here’s a look at my one-month award ballot, offering an early assessment of the MVP race and other standout performances across the league.
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER: Nikola Jokić
Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets) is already staking his claim to a fourth MVP award. With the Nuggets firmly in the championship hunt, Jokić’s numbers speak for themselves: 29.7 points, 13.7 rebounds, 11.7 assists, 1.7 steals, and 1 block per game. His all-around brilliance has been on full display, as he continues to improve upon career-highs in scoring, playmaking, and defense. Jokić’s shooting has been outrageous, with a 56.4% clip from beyond the arc — a testament to his skill set and Denver’s reliance on his every move.
This version of Jokić might just be his peak. He remains the engine that drives the Nuggets’ offense, while also anchoring their defense. In a season where the Nuggets are looking to make another deep playoff run, Jokić is playing at a level that could have him walking away with his fourth MVP trophy.
Top MVP Candidates:
Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics) has emerged as one of the league’s most complete players. Averaging 29.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 5.9 assists, Tatum’s versatility on both sides of the ball has been key to Boston’s strong start. His defensive ability and leadership have taken the Celtics to another level.
Anthony Davis (Los Angeles Lakers) is making his case as one of the best all-around players in the league. Averaging 31.3 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks, Davis has become the focal point of the Lakers’ offense and defense. This is the version of AD Lakers fans have always dreamed of.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder) continues to build on his strong MVP campaign from last season. Averaging 28.7 points, 6.3 assists, and 5.1 rebounds, SGA has kept Oklahoma City competitive, even with key players sidelined. He remains one of the most dynamic scorers in the league, and his ability to create for others is second to none.
Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors) is defying age at 36, maintaining a scoring efficiency near his all-time highs. Curry continues to lead the Warriors to success, with his offensive brilliance and leadership on both ends of the court.
All-NBA Teams (First Month Snapshot)
The All-NBA teams after the first month are a good barometer of the season’s early trends.
First Team:
- Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets)
- Anthony Davis (Los Angeles Lakers)
- Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics)
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder)
- Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors)
Second Team:
- Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves)
- De’Aaron Fox (Sacramento Kings)
- Luka Dončić (Dallas Mavericks)
- Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers)
- LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers)
Third Team:
- Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks)
- Kevin Durant (Phoenix Suns)
- Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs)
- Franz Wagner (Orlando Magic)
- Kyrie Irving (Dallas Mavericks)
The All-NBA race is packed with talent. Players like Luka Dončić, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Victor Wembanyama could easily rise as the season progresses, but for now, Jokić, Tatum, and AD have made their mark.
Defensive Player of the Month: Victor Wembanyama
It’s rare for a sophomore player to make such an impact, but Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs) is already dominating the Defensive Player of the Year conversation. Averaging 3.7 blocks, 1.3 steals, and 10.5 rebounds per game, Wemby is reshaping how teams approach offense. His rim protection is elite, and his ability to disrupt shots from all areas of the court is unmatched.
Wembanyama’s presence has transformed the Spurs’ defense, which ranks in the top 10 in defensive rating. His long wingspan and mobility on the perimeter have made him a nightmare for opposing teams, and he’s showing no signs of slowing down.
Rookie of the Month: Jared McCain
Jared McCain (Philadelphia 76ers) has emerged as a frontrunner for Rookie of the Year. Averaging 15.6 points, 2.7 assists, and shooting 41% from three, McCain has stepped into a bigger role following Tyrese Maxey’s injury. His scoring outbursts, including a 20-point game on a career-high 40 minutes, have made him one of the most exciting rookies this season. As Maxey returns, it will be interesting to see how McCain’s role evolves, but so far, he’s made an immediate impact.
Most Improved Player of the Month: Christian Braun
Christian Braun (Denver Nuggets) has taken a massive leap in his second season, averaging 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and shooting 42.5% from three. With the Nuggets’ starting shooting guard spot open after the departure of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Braun has seized the opportunity. His offensive game has grown, and he remains a reliable defender. The Nuggets have benefited from Braun’s improvement, making him one of the most intriguing players of the season.
Sixth Man of the Month: Payton Pritchard
Payton Pritchard (Boston Celtics) has been a steady contributor off the bench, averaging 15.3 points and shooting 42.3% from beyond the arc. His ability to score in bunches, along with his playmaking skills, has been crucial to the Celtics’ success. Whether it’s putting up 28 points or dishing out 8 assists, Pritchard’s versatility has made him the best Sixth Man of the Month.
The early stages of the NBA season have set the stage for an exciting year. Jokić’s dominance, Tatum’s growth, Wembanyama’s rise, and the emergence of young stars like McCain and Braun are just some of the storylines that have captured our attention. As the season progresses, expect these players and others to battle for postseason honors, but for now, the one-month awards give us a glimpse of who’s ahead of the pack.