The latest ESPN MVP straw poll for the 2025-26 NBA season has been released, and Boston Celtics forward Jaylen Brown is making waves. While he currently sits just outside the top five, landing in sixth place, there's a real opportunity for him to climb higher depending on how his peers' availability shakes out.
Brown, a Georgia native, is positioned just ahead of Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell. The players leading the poll include Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder, Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets, Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons, Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs, and Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers.
However, the NBA's 65-game requirement for major awards like MVP could impact several frontrunners. Gilgeous-Alexander, Jokic, Wembanyama, and Doncic have all faced significant absences this season, putting their eligibility at risk.
Even if these players fall short of the threshold, Brown's path to the MVP award remains challenging. The Pistons are leading the Celtics this season, and with Jayson Tatum likely returning, Brown's chances might be affected.
Nonetheless, Brown's potential rise into the top five could solidify his status as a top-tier player, proving he doesn't need to switch teams to shine. This could be a promising sign for the long-term partnership with Jayson Tatum in Boston, showcasing Brown's ability to be a leading option.