There’s been a lot of talk about MVP candidates this season so far and it’s time we discuss it with about 1/3rd of the season played already. A lot of fans can’t decide who to put where in the MVP race so I thought I’d give my own takes and perceptions on the MVP race so far. Let’s get into it…
3. Kawhi Leonard
Even though this is the last spot on the list, this was the hardest to choose. There were other options like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, and others, but I had to go with Kawhi Leonard. Leonard this year is averaging 26.5 PPG, 5.9 RPG, and 5.1 APG on 50.5% from the field, 40.2% from three, and 88.1% from the charity stripe. Those are extremely efficient numbers and is very close to being a part of the 50/40/90 club.
Kawhi Leonard is playing at a very high level and the Clippers are winning due to it. Leonard currently is ranked 3rd in win shares at 3.9 in the league. Personally, I like this stat to choose my MVP as it makes the most sense to me. Kawhi Leonard has been consistent on the offensive and defensive end this year and it’s helped lead the Clippers to wins. I don’t think Kawhi has a realistic chance to win the MVP award, but who knows… we’ve seen crazier things happen.
2. Nikola Jokic
Some may be confused why Jokic is at #2 on this list due to the Nuggets only being the #7 seed in the West, but they’re the #7 seed BECAUSE of Jokic. Other than Jokic, the other starters for the Nuggets have been extremely inconsistent to say the least. Everyone expected Jamal Murray to take a leap to stardom this season and it just hasn’t happened like we expected it to.
Jokic is currently ranked 1st in the NBA in win shares at 5.2 which is crazy impressive. Not only that, he’s putting up crazy numbers. He is currently averaging 26.9 PPG, 11.3 RPG, 8.6 APG on 56.7% from the field and 40% from three-point land. The only reason that Jokic isn’t the #1 ranked player on this list is due to the Nuggets not being a higher seed, other than that… Jokic would be the clear cut MVP for sure. If the Nuggets can push themselves to a top 3 seed in the West, Jokic’s case for MVP will definitely grow and he will definitely be in serious contention to win it.
1. Joel Embiid
Joel Embiid is the best player on the best team in the East and is absolutely dominating. The biggest reason for the 76ers success this year has been the dominance of Embiid not only on the offensive end but also the defensive end. Joel Embiid is ranked 2nd in win shares at 4.0 and is #1 in PER (Player Efficiency Rating) in the league with 31.2.
Unlike Jokic, Embiid dominates not only on the offensive end but also on the defensive end. He is the definition of a true anchor in the middle. His ability to post up, shoot the mid range, shoot the 3, and also lock up the paint on the other end makes him so dangerous. Looking at Embiid’s stats, they’re quite impressive. He is currently averaging 29.4 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 2.9 APG on 54.5% from the field and 38.1% from three.
Embiid takes the edge over Jokic and Kawhi due to his ability to be dominant on both ends and also leading his team to the best record in the Eastern Conference.
Honorable Mentions: Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Kevin Durant
