As the NBA season begins its push toward All-Star Weekend and the stretch run that follows, the Kia MVP race continues to center on international stars, NBA reports. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic sit atop most ladders, and betting odds reflect that reality, per Fox Sports. Still, former NBA star Tracy McGrady believes the conversation deserves a serious pivot toward Boston Celtics wing Jaylen Brown.
Brown currently trails several names in MVP odds, listed behind Gilgeous-Alexander, Jokic, and others, despite carrying a Celtics roster that has dealt with significant turnover and extended absences. While sportsbooks position him as a long shot, McGrady sees Brown’s circumstances as the exact reason he belongs at the front of the discussion.
McGrady did not hedge when explaining his stance, pointing directly to what Brown has managed without the core Boston relied on in recent seasons.
“Jaylen Brown is the MVP,” McGrady said. “When you look at Shai, Jokic, these guys have their core group. You look at JB, Horford is gone, JT is out, Jrue Holiday is gone, Porzingis is gone. That’s four of their starters. They’re second in the Eastern Conference. He’s averaging 28, 29 points. I have to give credit on how he’s playing because of what he’s lost.”
Why McGrady Believes Brown’s Case Stands Apart
McGrady’s argument centers on context rather than pure efficiency or advanced metrics. While Gilgeous-Alexander and Jokic continue to thrive within stable systems, Brown has taken on a different challenge entirely, leading a reshaped Celtics lineup that has remained near the top of the East despite missing multiple foundational pieces.
Boston’s ability to stay competitive has hinged largely on Brown’s offensive responsibility and consistency. His scoring output has risen as the roster around him thinned, and his role has expanded beyond what many expected entering the season. For McGrady, that load matters.
The MVP race often rewards dominance paired with team success, and Boston’s position in the standings strengthens Brown’s case, even if his odds suggest otherwise. While sportsbooks list him well behind the favorites, McGrady’s endorsement highlights how narrative and circumstance still shape MVP debates.
International Stars Still Control the Race
The broader MVP landscape remains heavily influenced by international players. Gilgeous-Alexander continues to lead the Thunder while sitting atop MVP odds, with Jokic close behind as Denver’s engine. Their performances have fueled a wider conversation about the league’s global shift, a theme underscored by the NBA’s revamped All-Star Game format that now highlights international talent.
James Harden remains the last American-born MVP winner, claiming the award in 2019, and the gap since then has only sharpened scrutiny around candidates like Brown. McGrady’s comments arrive at a moment when that drought continues to frame MVP discussions.
Even so, Brown’s presence among the top names in MVP odds, albeit further down the board, reflects growing recognition of his impact. While others remain favored, McGrady’s stance reframes the debate around resilience and responsibility rather than roster stability.
With All-Star Weekend approaching and the final weeks of the season looming, Brown’s performance will remain under a brighter spotlight. Whether or not voters follow McGrady’s lead, his comments ensure Jaylen Brown’s MVP candidacy will no longer sit quietly behind the league’s usual favorites.
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