The Kevin O'Connor Show NBA's big tanking problem, JJJ injured, awards check-in + thoughts entering All-Star break
Feb 12, 2026
A midseason awards check-in that ranks MVP and other award contenders. A deep dive into the league's tanking problem and a proposed lottery wheel fix. Reaction to Jaren Jackson Jr.'s injury and surgery timeline. Live mail-bag answering viewer questions about load management, expansion ideas, and All-Star Weekend context.
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Top Three MVP Tier Emerges
- Shea Gildas-Alexander, Victor Wembanyama, and Nikola Jokic form a clear top-three MVP tier this season.
- Kevin O’Connor ranks SGA first due to elite efficiency, scoring, and two-way impact despite an abdominal injury.
Big Men Dominate Defensive Conversation
- Victor Wembanyama and Rudy Gobert stand out as the defensive players most impacting team defensive rating.
- Kevin O’Connor calls both players in a class of their own and places Wemby atop his Defensive Player of the Year ballot.
Jaren Jackson Jr.'s Post-Trade Surgery Decision
- Jaren Jackson Jr. opted to play a few games for Utah before electing surgery after his trade MRI discovered abnormal tissue.
- Kevin O’Connor reports the tissue is non-cancerous but needs removal to avoid cartilage erosion and stiffness.