(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Ex-Maverick Names Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic as 2026 NBA MVP Favorites
August 14, 2025 –
Former NBA veteran Boban Marjanovic predicts that the 2026 NBA MVP race will be a showdown between Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic. Marjanovic praised Doncic’s talent, work ethic, and dedication both on the court and with his national team.
Marjanovic, who played alongside Doncic with the Dallas Mavericks and with Jokic on the Serbian national team, highlighted why these two stars are the clear MVP frontrunners.
“It’ll be between him [Luka Doncic] and [Nikola] Jokic. One of them will be the MVP,” Marjanovic told Yahoo Sports.
Marjanovic is particularly impressed by Doncic’s recent physical transformation and commitment to improving his game.
“Luka is the best. He’s a hard worker, always in the gym, always competing,” Marjanovic said. “He’s gifted and can make any move he wants. He’s one of the best in the world, and I’m not just saying that because he’s my friend.”
Marjanovic also noted Doncic’s dedication to both his national team and his new club, the Los Angeles Lakers, saying that the guard continues to push himself even after long NBA seasons.
“He’s working to accomplish his goals with both his national team and the Lakers,” Marjanovic added, emphasizing Doncic’s relentless drive and focus.
