Since James Harden won the Kia MVP in 2018, an American-born player has missed out on the NBA's highest individual honor for six consecutive years.

With the recent rise of international stars like Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the MVP race has become increasingly diverse. Who will bring the trophy back to the United States in the 2025-26 season has become a hot topic.

In the 2024-25 season, Jayson Tatum will likely miss most of the season due to injury. LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant, while still impactful, are no longer in their prime. The following five American players are considered to have the best chances of winning the MVP award or receiving a high vote.

Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks)
From a Dallas Mavericks reserve to a New York Knicks center, Brunson has blossomed into one of the league's top point guards over the past three years. Last season, he ranked second among point guards in scoring, behind only Cade Cunningham, and he was more efficient. If he can improve his assists under new coach Mike Brown and lead the team toward 50 wins and a top-three finish in the Eastern Conference, he'll be a strong candidate for MVP.

Cade Cunningham (Detroit Pistons)
Finishing seventh in MVP voting last season, the Detroit Pistons' core players are steadily improving, and the team has 50-win potential. Cunningham is at the critical juncture of transitioning from good to great. If he starts the season strong and earns an All-Star starter, his MVP case will quickly intensify.

Anthony Davis (Dallas Mavericks)
A top-tier two-way star, his future is limited only by his health. He has played more than 65 games in just one season since 2018. This is his first full season with the Dallas Mavericks. If he can maintain his form and carry the team until Kyrie Irving returns, he could return to being an MVP candidate.

Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves)
Last season, he averaged 27.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, with a significant improvement in his three-point shooting. If he can maintain his high scoring and lead his team to 60 wins and the top seed in the highly competitive Western Conference, he will be a strong contender for MVP.

Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers)
Mitchell was a key contributor to the Cleveland Cavaliers' 64-win season, leading the Eastern Conference. If he can maintain his high winning percentage and maintain his statistical dominance, particularly in scoring and guard rebounding, his MVP campaign will be further strengthened.

With international players dominating the MVP rankings, American stars looking to reclaim the trophy will need not only impressive individual performances but also leadership in achieving top-tier results. These five players will carry the weight of American basketball's honors and expectations this coming season, aiming for the highest individual honor.