NBA MVP Power Rankings: Jayson Tatum rises after recent success, who drops?

1. Nikola Jokic

Last week's rank: 1

After retaking the No. 1 spot in last week's rankings, Nikola Jokic has started to run away with the MVP award.

Jokic hasn't just dominated in January, but he has led the Nuggets to a 4-2 record in the New Year. The Nuggets are riding high after dominating the New Orleans Pelicans on national television. The 12-point victory was capped off with a Jokic triple-double, his first since late December.

Jokic finished the night with 27 points, 14 assists, and 10 rebounds. The Nuggets finally looked like themselves, and it was in front of a national audience. Before Friday's game, Jokic would have yet another impactful performance against the Jazz. Utah would end up winning, but Jokic finished with 27 points and 11 rebounds.

While also being a beast on offense, Jokic has also improved defensively this season. On Sunday, the Nuggets would take on the Detroit Pistons in a very winnable game. The Nuggets didn't just dominate, but Jokic would finish with five blocks, a season high for the Serbian.

The Nuggets must ride high on their recent success because they will draw three tough matchups next week. On Sunday, they will play the hot Indiana Pacers and will attempt to put an end to Haliburton's magic. They will follow that up with two consecutive national television games against the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers.

A lot will be on the line for Jokic and the Nuggets next week. For more updates on the MVP race and Dallas Mavericks basketball, stay plugged in.