BASKETBALL RIFF: NBA MVP PREDICTION The most valuable player in the national basketball association must play at least 65 games. Nikola Jokić, Victor Wembanyama, and Luka Dončić – three leading candidates with a combined probability of 30% to win MVP – are on pace to play fewer than 65 games. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who has a 54% chance (down from 80% end of January), is currently injured and on the edge of this eligibility requirement. Nikola Jokić, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Stephen Curry, and LeBron James were the last players to win back-to-back MVPs. Personally, I'm already doubtful his play this season is sufficient to win the award in two consecutive seasons. Eliminating Jokić, Wembanyama, Dončić, and SGA, the top candidates are Detroit’s Cade Cunningham (15%) and Boston’s Jaylen Brown (2%). If either wins, both get a great character arc. With Cunningham, Detroit was terrible a few years ago. With Brown, he'd be UP adding to his Finals MVP.