MVP Awkwardness Incoming? Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Could Face a 2007 Dirk Situation

As the Denver Nuggets forced a Game 7 with a 119-107 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder, an intriguing subplot has begun to surface — the league’s MVP announcement has yet to be made, and it could lead to an awkward moment for frontrunner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

According to the latest revealed ballots, SGA has received 32 first-place votes and 397 total points, leading Nikola Jokic, who has 15 first-place votes and 283 points. The MVP race appears all but decided in Gilgeous-Alexander’s favor. However, with the award presentation reportedly pushed to after this heated second-round series, history threatens to repeat itself.

The 2007 Dirk Nowitzki Parallel

Fans with long memories will recall the infamous 2007 scenario when Dirk Nowitzki was named MVP after his Dallas Mavericks were stunningly upset in the first round by the No. 8 seed Golden State Warriors. Dirk had to accept the league’s top individual honor while grappling with one of the most painful playoff exits of his career.

Should the Thunder falter in Game 7, Gilgeous-Alexander could find himself in a similar position — receiving the MVP trophy shortly after his team is eliminated from the postseason. It’s a scenario no superstar wants to experience.

The Stakes for Game 7

SGA has been phenomenal all season, earning the top spot in MVP voting through consistent elite performances. But the playoffs have a way of reshaping narratives. With everything now hinging on Sunday’s Game 7, both Gilgeous-Alexander and Jokic — who’s seeking to reclaim his throne and defend the Nuggets' title — have one last chance to solidify their postseason legacies this year.

Will SGA avoid Dirk’s 2007 fate, or will history cruelly repeat itself? The stage is set for an epic finish.