What happened: The NBA released its latest MVP Ladder, centering the early award chase on Luka Doncic and Victor Wembanyama as their clubs contend for the top spot in the Western Conference. The Los Angeles Lakers lead the conference at 11-2 on a seven-game winning streak, while the San Antonio Spurs sit close behind at 10-2 with 10 straight wins.
Why it matters: Both players are anchoring the Western Conference's two frontrunners while posting dominant statistical starts to the regular season. Doncic has kept Los Angeles in first place despite managing day-to-day soreness, while Wembanyama has guided San Antonio's double-digit winning streak to keep the Spurs within a half-game of the top seed.
By the numbers: Doncic has recorded 38.6 points per game and 7.5 rebounds per game and 7.6 assists per game in 2026-27 through 11 games. Wembanyama has recorded 30.3 points per game and 11.7 rebounds per game and 2.8 assists per game in 2026-27 through 12 games. Los Angeles is 11-2 through 13 games, and San Antonio is 10-2 through 12 games.
What to watch: Both clubs look to extend their double-digit conference starts as regular-season play continues.