Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective Episode: 2nd MVP Straw Poll Reaction: 2 Clear Favorites Release Date: February 14, 2025

In the second episode of "Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective," hosted by Brian Windhorst alongside ESPN insiders Zach Lowe and Tim Bontemps, the panel delves into the latest NBA MVP straw poll results. The episode, titled "2nd MVP Straw Poll Reaction: 2 Clear Favorites," offers an in-depth analysis of the poll’s methodology, results, and the implications for the remainder of the NBA season.

1. Introduction and Poll Methodology

The episode kicks off with Zach Lowe welcoming the listeners and introducing Tim Bontemps and Ben McMahon, who are actively engaged in covering the NBA All-Star festivities and the upcoming All-Star break. The primary focus quickly shifts to discussing the MVP straw poll, a recurring event that takes place three times a season—once in the fall and twice during the regular season.

Zach Lowe (00:35): "Hello and welcome to the Hoop Collective podcast. We talk about the NBA which you're doing on Thursday afternoon."

Tim Bontemps explains the complexity of the poll's methodology, emphasizing that it involves interviewing 100 likely voters across all 30 NBA markets and internationally. This diverse approach ensures a balanced representation from broadcasters, writers, and pundits alike.

Tim Bontemps (01:50): "He talks to 100 likely voters in all 30 markets and internationally. He talks to broadcasters, writers, pundits."

2. Early Poll Results and Lower-Tier Players

Brian Windhorst provides a rundown of the lower-tier players who received votes, highlighting newcomers like Pistons guard Kate Cunningham and Cavs’ Evan Mobley. The discussion includes humorous takes on players like Tristan Thompson, who recently made headlines for an unforeseen dunk during a game against the Raptors, leading to tension with coach Darko.

Brian Windhorst (04:06): "Another first time entered in the poll... Cavs corner, stand up for Evan Mobley."

Zach Lowe (05:03): Reflects on Tristan Thompson's antics and how they might influence public perception of his MVP candidacy.

3. Mid-Tier Contenders: LeBron James and Victor Wembanyama

LeBron James re-enters the poll, securing the eighth spot with a combination of first and fifth-place votes. Similarly, Victor Wembanyama sees a slight rise due to the Spurs' improved performance, keeping him in contention for an All-Star spot.

Brian Windhorst (07:05): "LeBron James... First entrance in the poll since the beginning of last season."

Tim Bontemps (09:09): "Jaren Jackson Jr. has a great case to be an all NBA selection if he keeps this role for the final 30 games of the season."

4. Top Contenders: Jayson Tatum and Nikola Jokic

As the discussion moves to the top of the poll, the spotlight intensifies on two dominant figures: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Shay) from the Oklahoma City Thunder and Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets. Both players have consistently led the polls, showcasing extraordinary performances that have solidified their positions as frontrunners for the MVP title.

Brian Windhorst (18:43): "Jason Tatum was first in the first straw poll of the 22, 23 season. The year and Bead ended up winning."

Zach Lowe (23:00): "I voted for Jokic in the first poll and felt pretty strongly about where he was... I did vote for Shea for first in this."

5. Shay vs. Jokic: A Two-Horse Race

The core of the episode revolves around the intense rivalry between Shay Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic. The panelists debate their statistical achievements, team performances, and overall impact on the league.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Shay)

• Performance: Averaging career-high points per game, leading the league in scoring efficiency.
• Team Impact: The Oklahoma City Thunder have surged to the top of the Western Conference, significantly improving their record and point differential.
• Quotes:
  • Tim Bontemps (25:08): "Shay has made a... I'll call it like a little hop. Not quite elite, but he's averaging what, two and a half more points per game..."
  • Brian Windhorst (28:14): "Shay would become the sixth player in NBA history to average 3.5 steals and blocks a game."

Nikola Jokic

• Performance: Continuing his historic season with unprecedented triple-doubles, maintaining high shooting percentages.
• Team Impact: The Denver Nuggets are solidifying their position as a top team in the Western Conference, with Jamal Murray returning to form.
• Quotes:
  • Brian Windhorst (28:14): "Jokic is the first non-center to average a triple-double for a season. His numbers across the board are completely bonkers."
  • Tim Bontemps (38:26): "Shay is having an MVP runner-up season and has made a significant leap... his net rating swing is neck and neck with Jokic's."

6. Final Poll Results: Shay Takes the Lead

The episode concludes with the revelation that Shay Gilgeous-Alexander has emerged as the frontrunner, securing 910 total points compared to Jokic’s 788. The panel discusses the narrow margin and the ongoing competition, anticipating a potentially tight race as the season progresses.

Brian Windhorst (30:21): "Nikola Jokic who's now in second. He was in first in the first place."

Zach Lowe (43:12): "Unassailable."

Final Standings:

• Shay Gilgeous-Alexander: 71 first-place votes, 32 second-place votes, 910 total points.
• Nikola Jokic: 30 first-place votes, 69 second-place votes, 788 total points.

7. Predictions and Closing Thoughts

The panelists express their predictions, acknowledging that while Shay currently leads, Jokic's exceptional performance could still sway the final outcome. They emphasize the importance of maintaining a fair and respectful discussion as the MVP race heats up.

Brian Windhorst (33:31): "This is going to be a fascinating one to go down to the end."

Tim Bontemps (33:52): "That's a good one. Jackson, get us that one too. Shay is minus 700, Jokic plus 425."

Zach Lowe (34:17): Encourages a non-toxic dialogue moving forward, focusing on the merits of both candidates.

Conclusion

The episode provides a comprehensive analysis of the MVP straw poll, highlighting the strengths and contributions of Shay Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic. With both players exhibiting extraordinary performances, the MVP race remains intensely competitive, promising an exciting conclusion as the season advances. The panel's balanced discussion, enriched with humorous anecdotes and critical insights, offers listeners a thorough understanding of the current MVP landscape in the NBA.

Notable Quotes:

• Zach Lowe (01:40): "I will never claim to be a math expert."
• Brian Windhorst (17:33): "Yeah, I couldn’t agree more. I think he deserves a ton of credit for that."
• Tim Bontemps (33:52): "Shay is minus 700, Jokic plus 425."

Timestamp Highlights:

• 00:35 - Introduction to poll day
• 05:03 - Discussion on Tristan Thompson’s dunk
• 18:43 - Jason Tatum's standing in the poll
• 28:14 - Shay and Jokic's statistical achievements
• 30:21 - Final poll results announcement
• 33:31 - Predictions on MVP race dynamics

This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of the podcast episode, ensuring that both avid listeners and newcomers can grasp the critical discussions surrounding the NBA MVP straw poll.