The 2025 NBA Western Conference semifinals are set to deliver one of the most exciting matchups in recent history, pitting the Denver Nuggets against the Oklahoma City Thunder. This series is not just a battle for a spot in the conference finals but also a showdown between the two leading candidates for the 2025 NBA MVP award: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) and Nikola Jokic.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: The Thunder's Leader

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been nothing short of spectacular this season. Averaging 32.7 points, 6.4 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game, SGA has been the driving force behind Oklahoma City's league-best 68-14 record. His ability to score efficiently, distribute the ball, and lead his team has made him a front-runner for the MVP award.

Nikola Jokic: The Nuggets' Maestro

On the other side, Nikola Jokic, a three-time MVP winner, has once again proven why he is considered one of the best players in the league. This season, Jokic posted career highs in points (29.6) and assists (10.2) per game, while also averaging 12.7 rebounds. His all-around game and leadership have been crucial for the Nuggets' success.

Historical Context

This matchup marks the eighth time since 1990 that the top two MVP candidates have faced each other in the playoffs. Historically, the team with the MVP winner has won five of these series, with four of those victories involving Michael Jordan. The stakes are high, and the basketball world is eagerly anticipating this clash of titans.

Previous MVP Showdowns

Here’s a look back at some notable MVP showdowns in NBA playoff history:

• 2017: Russell Westbrook vs. James Harden

  • MVP: Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City Thunder
  • Runner-up: James Harden, Houston Rockets
  • Series Result: Rockets win 4-1

• 2015: Stephen Curry vs. James Harden

  • MVP: Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors
  • Runner-up: James Harden, Houston Rockets
  • Series Result: Warriors win 4-1

• 2012: LeBron James vs. Kevin Durant

  • MVP: LeBron James, Miami Heat
  • Runner-up: Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City Thunder
  • Series Result: Heat win 4-1

• 1998: Michael Jordan vs. Karl Malone

  • MVP: Michael Jordan, Chicago Bulls
  • Runner-up: Karl Malone, Utah Jazz
  • Series Result: Bulls win 4-2

What to Expect

With both SGA and Jokic in peak form, this series promises to be a battle of skill, strategy, and determination. Fans can expect high-octane performances, clutch moments, and perhaps a new chapter in NBA history.

Stay tuned as these two MVP candidates go head-to-head in what could be one of the most memorable playoff series in recent years.