What happened: The NBA released its Week 4 MVP ladder rankings for the 2026-27 season, placing Giannis Antetokounmpo at No. 11. Deni Avdija followed at No. 12, Karl-Anthony Towns at No. 13, Jamal Murray at No. 14, and Ty Jerome at No. 15. Cade Cunningham secured the No. 10 position to round out the top tier.
Why it matters: Antetokounmpo remains in the MVP conversation while leading Miami through an early 5-6 start to the 2026-27 season. Murray has kept the Denver Nuggets in playoff contention at 6-4 in 2026-27 through 10 games. High-scoring starts by Avdija and Jerome also earned both players recognition just outside the top 10.
By the numbers: Antetokounmpo has recorded 27.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game in 2026-27 through 11 games. Murray has recorded 26.2 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game in 2026-27 through 10 games. Towns has recorded 20.9 points, 13.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game in 2026-27 through 11 games.
What to watch: Antetokounmpo is listed as probable with a right wrist sprain ahead of Miami's next contest. The Denver Nuggets look to build momentum following a 123-118 win over Memphis.