While the NBA has an MVP award for nearly every occasion—regular season, Finals, In-Season Tournament, and even All-Star—one accolade remains conspicuously absent: a Playoffs MVP. It’s a concept the old ABA actually embraced. If such an award existed today, who would be the leading contenders? We’ve ranked the top 15 players most likely to claim that hypothetical honor, weighing not just individual brilliance but also their team’s projected playoff journey.

Topping our list is the reigning Finals MVP, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. With the Oklahoma City Thunder favored to repeat as champions, SGA’s case is compelling. He’s orchestrating one of the most statistically dominant guard seasons in league history, averaging 31.1 points, 6.6 assists, and 4.3 rebounds on elite 55.3% shooting. Last postseason, he powered the Thunder to a title, though his efficiency dipped slightly. If he maintains his regular-season form this spring, he’ll be the undeniable engine of the title favorite.

Just behind him is the ever-dominant Nikola Jokić. The Denver Nuggets face a brutal playoff gauntlet, potentially navigating through Minnesota, San Antonio, and Oklahoma City. Yet, Jokić is playing at a level even higher than during Denver’s 2023 championship run, nearly averaging a triple-double with 27.7 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 10.7 assists. His unparalleled playmaking and scoring efficiency make him the ultimate playoff weapon, capable of carrying a team through any challenge.