Caruso shared his take after practice on Saturday. “I'm a traditionalist. I like one winner,” Caruso said. “Someone's having a better season; just pick it.”

Look closely enough, and you could spot the wrinkles forming around Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s cheeks. The beard sprouting onto Jalen Williams’ bare face. The experiences in Chet Holmgren’s eyes.

In the first round of an MVP double bill to be continued Monday, Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander both struggled from the 3-point line.