The NBA Cup semifinals are set to take over T-Mobile Arena on Saturday, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander entering as the favorite to claim the tournament’s MVP honors.
According to DraftKings Sportsbook, the Oklahoma City Thunder superstar leads the field at +125, with Giannis Antetokounmpo (+330) and Alperen Sengun (+800) among the top contenders. Trae Young (+1100) and Damian Lillard (+1500) round out the MVP candidates with better than +2000 odds heading into the weekend.
Here’s a detailed look at the top NBA Cup MVP contenders on DraftKings Sportsbook:
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (+125)
Gilgeous-Alexander has been the driving force for the Thunder, leading them to the semifinals with his scoring and defensive versatility. Oklahoma City’s title hopes and MVP chances rest on his ability to dominate in high-pressure moments. He has averaged 30.2 points, 6.3 assists, and 5.4 rebounds in 24 games this season, shooting 50.5% from the field. In Tuesday’s quarterfinal win over the Mavericks, Gilgeous-Alexander posted 39 points, eight rebounds, five assists, and three steals in a statement performance. He was phenomenal against Dallas, setting the tone for a possible campaign as long as Oklahoma City wins the title.
Giannis Antetokounmpo (+330)
Antetokounmpo has powered the Bucks to an 11-3 record since NBA Cup play began, showcasing his two-way dominance. The two-time MVP is averaging 32.7 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 6.0 assists in 22 games this season. On Tuesday, Antetokounmpo scored 37 points, adding seven rebounds and four blocks in a win over the Magic, further highlighting his impact. The two-time MVP should not be discounted. He has the type of talent to impose his will in single-elimination situations.
Alperen Sengun (+800)
Sengun has emerged as the Rockets’ centerpiece during their NBA Cup run. The versatile big man is putting up 18.8 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in 25 games this season. On Wednesday, he recorded a double-double with 26 points and 11 rebounds against the Warriors, continuing to elevate his team on both ends. If the Rockets managed to win the tournament, it would have involved defeating the Thunder after already taking down the Warriors. It’s difficult to envision any other player other than Sengun being positioned to earn the honor in this instance.
Trae Young (+1100)
Young has led the Hawks’ offense with his scoring and playmaking, helping Atlanta to a surprising run to the semifinals. The All-Star guard is averaging 21.0 points, 12.2 assists, and 3.9 rebounds in 25 games this season. He tallied 22 points and 11 assists in Atlanta’s quarterfinal victory over the Knicks on Wednesday, showcasing his ability to thrive under pressure. A big tournament as the focal point of the Hawks could go a long way for Young, who is coming off a performance at Madison Square Garden that caught the attention of many around the NBA.
Damian Lillard (+1500)
Lillard has been instrumental in Milwaukee’s improved play alongside Antetokounmpo. The star guard is averaging 25.8 points, 7.6 assists, and 4.4 rebounds in 21 games this season. On Tuesday, Lillard posted 28 points and nine assists in the Bucks’ win over the Magic, further proving his value as a clutch performer. With Antetokounpmo being the top option in Milwaukee’s offense, it remains to be seen if he’ll have enough opportunity to position himself as the MVP. He did already have a big game to get his team to Las Vegas, though.
Other Names to Watch
While most eyes are on the top contenders, several players with longer odds could make a splash. Jalen Johnson (+1800) has been a breakout star for the Hawks, while Fred VanVleet (+2500) has been a steady veteran presence for the Rockets. Jalen Williams (+3000) offers the Thunder a secondary scoring option, and Dyson Daniels (+6000) has been critical to Atlanta’s defense.
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All odds provided by DraftKings Sportsbook and all odds subject to change.
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