Denver Nuggets: Five storylines in the Phoenix Suns series

Denver Nuggets vs Phoenix Suns: How often do MVPs lose after the trophy?

One of the coolest parts about players receiving the MVP trophy is that it happens in the middle of a playoff series. It usually acts as a welcome break from the rigors of playoff basketball.

When players make their trophy acceptance speech, they usually go through the entire roster, telling all or some of their teammates how they helped them throughout their careers. This is assuming the MVP makes it far enough into the playoffs *cough* Dirk *cough*.

It can also act as an energizing moment for the team.

In 2014, Kevin Durant delivered his ‘you the real MVP’ speech in front of his teammates before going on to talk about how his teammates helped him throughout the year.

In Stephen Curry’s MVP speech, en route to his first NBA championship with the Golden State Warriors, he says something about each of his teammates, all the way from Klay Thompson to Marreese Speights, from Draymond Green to Brandon Rush.

It’s a galvanizing moment for teams as their best player has the opportunity to puff up their teammates, thank them on a national stage, and look forward to the future with them.

Whether it’s announced after Game 1 or Game 6, I would hate to be the other team having to face a motivated, emotional, and connected team after Jokic’s MVP speech. Maybe that passion can push the team for a series win as well.