When Russell Westbrook won the NBA MVP title in 2017 with the Oklahoma City Thunder, he produced mind-boggling averages of 31.6 points, 10.7 rebounds, 10.4 assists, 1.6 steals and 2.5 triples per game. That was the first time he averaged a triple-double in a season — a feat that he would repeat three more times in the next four years.

ESPN's Tim Bontemps polled NBA insiders on a handful of questions, including who will win this year's MVP. Jokić received the most votes with seven, followed by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander with five, Luka Dončić with four, Victor Wembanyama with two, Giannis Antetokounmpo with one and Anthony Edwards with one.

NBA MVP race to once again come down to a battle between Denver center Nikola Jokic and OKC guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Which underdog candidates could emerge in the 2025-26 NBA MVP chase? Who is primed for an epic comeback in the months ahead?