Luka Dončić has surged to third place in the 2025-26 NBA MVP race, according to the latest NBA odds from BetOnline. Dončić’s rise in MVP projections follows a headline-making offseason.
He signed a three-year, $165 million max extension with the Lakers, locking him in through 2028 with a player option for 2029. This move cements him as Los Angeles’ new franchise cornerstone. Since arriving in February, he averaged about 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists over 28 games, underscoring his immediate impact.
Off the court, Dončić has drawn attention for his improved physical condition. Reports indicate the 26-year-old entered training camp in the best shape of his career. This transformation enhances his stamina and explosiveness which are key factors for a dominant MVP campaign.
Moreover, analysts and fans alike speculate about Dončić’s future with the Lakers. With LeBron James nearing retirement, many view Dončić as the Lakers’ ideal heir apparent. The possibility adds intrigue to his growing legacy, especially with his MVP narrative gaining momentum.
BetOnline NBA MVP Odds for 2025-26 Season
According to BetOnline, Luka Dončić is listed at 7/2 (+350). He now trails only Nikola Jokic at 5/2 (+250) and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at 13/5 (+260).
Betting markets now list him ahead of past MVPs like Giannis Antetokounmpo (9/1) and Joel Embiid (66/1). Young stars such as Anthony Edwards (11/1) and Victor Wembanyama (14/1) follow closely behind.
Dončić’s ascent reflects confidence among NBA picks experts and bettors using the best online sportsbooks. His high usage rate, elite passing, and scoring ability position him as a perennial MVP threat.
Throughout last season, Dončić averaged 33.9 points, 9.8 assists, and 9.2 rebounds per game. He often flirts with triple-doubles on a nightly basis. If he replicates those stats while leading LA deep into the playoffs, his MVP chances will skyrocket.
Meanwhile, veteran contenders like Kevin Durant (50/1), Stephen Curry (125/1), and LeBron James (150/1) continue to slip down the NBA odds list.
Here’s the rest of the potential NBA MVP candidates, as per the latest BetOnline betting lines:
Top 12 MVP Favorites
| Nikola Jokic | 5/2 | (+250) |
| Shai Gilgeous-Alexander | 13/5 | (+260) |
| Luka Dončić | 7/2 | (+350) |
| Giannis Antetokounmpo | 9/1 | |
| Anthony Edwards | 11/1 | |
| Victor Wembanyama | 14/1 | |
| Cade Cunningham | 28/1 | |
| Jalen Brunson | 33/1 | |
| Kevin Durant | 50/1 | |
| Paolo Banchero | 50/1 | |
| Joel Embiid | 66/1 | |
| Donovan Mitchell | 75/1 |
Rest of the Field
| Anthony Davis | 100/1 |
| Jaylen Brown | 100/1 |
| Ja Morant | 125/1 |
| Stephen Curry | 125/1 |
| Devin Booker | 150/1 |
| LeBron James | 150/1 |
| Trae Young | 175/1 |
| Karl-Anthony Towns | 200/1 |
| Pascal Siakam | 200/1 |
| Evan Mobley | 250/1 |
| Jalen Williams | 250/1 |
| Alperen Sengun | 300/1 |
| Chet Holmgren | 300/1 |
| Cooper Flagg | 300/1 |
| James Harden | 300/1 |
| Jaren Jackson Jr. | 300/1 |
| Kawhi Leonard | 300/1 |
| Tyrese Maxey | 300/1 |
| Zion Williamson | 300/1 |
| Amen Thompson | 500/1 |
| Bam Adebayo | 500/1 |
| Darius Garland | 500/1 |
| De’Aaron Fox | 500/1 |
| DeMar DeRozan | 500/1 |
| Derrick White | 500/1 |
| Desmond Bane | 500/1 |
| Domantas Sabonis | 500/1 |
| Franz Wagner | 500/1 |
| Jalen Green | 500/1 |
| Jamal Murray | 500/1 |
| Jimmy Butler | 500/1 |
| Julius Randle | 500/1 |
| LaMelo Ball | 500/1 |
| Lauri Markkanen | 500/1 |
| Paul George | 500/1 |
| Scottie Barnes | 500/1 |
| Stephon Castle | 500/1 |
| Tyler Herro | 500/1 |
| Zach LaVine | 500/1 |
Is the Lakers’ Lineup Enough for Next Season?
Along with Dončić’s extension, the Lakers actively improved their roster around him. They added DeAndre Ayton to upgrade rim protection, Jake LaRavia for youthful shooting upside, and Marcus Smart for perimeter defense and leadership. These moves indicate a clear commitment to surround Doncic with complementary talent.
Along with the new teammates, the 2025-26 Lakers still have LeBron, Austin Reaves, Dalton Knecht, Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jaxson Hayes, Gabe Vincent, Bronny James, and Markieff Morris.
The question now is whether or not this current roster has what it takes. Historically, the Western Conference has been stacked with formidable teams that can easily contend for a championship.
With the 2025-26 season approaching, all eyes are on Dončić. The combination of elite talent, physical peak, and leadership makes him a top-tier MVP candidate.
As bettors evaluate NBA picks for the upcoming season, Luka Dončić’s rising stock will be hard to ignore.
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