LeBron James is in a close one with Kevin Durant for the MVP race, and it go either player's way. With the regular season coming close to an end, we'll see how will come out as the winner.
James has won the MVP before, and for Durant it would be his first. James won his first during the 2008-09 season and then got his second one a season later, both on the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Winning his third would be huge, being only the eighth player to do so. If he does in fact win it, only Kareem Abdul-Jabbar would be the younger one to win three MVP's.
James can truly solidify himself as a future Hall-of-Famer with another MVP award.
"It would mean a lot, honestly, it would mean a lot," James said. "If I'm able to win it this year it would be very humbling knowing the caliber of guys who have won it three times."
"I remember me being a little, scrawny guy from Akron, Ohio, and watching so many greats either watching live or watching games, knowing and loving the history of the game and seeing the guys who have paved the way for myself. I've always respected that. I've always respected the talent that came before me."
James has been averaging 27 points, eight rebounds, and six assists so far this season, which are well MVP numbers. He also beat Kevin Durant in a game earlier, showing that Miami can be the better team. Along with that, he had an amazing outburst against the New Jersey Nets, showing that he is in fact clutch. He's also done great without Dwyane Wade, going 11-1. He can definitely win the MVP award.
However, the only thing missing for James is a ring, and he can add that to his collection if he can lead Miami in this year's playoffs. Doc Rivers thinks James is well-deserving of the award and should be winning it every year.
"LeBron, to me, is the (MVP) favorite every year," Rivers said. "If he doesn't win it, it's because people are tired of voting for him."
With another MVP award, James thinks he can go back to being himself.
"It would be gratifying to know that just one year removed from what I came from," James said.
"I'm just back to playing the way I play the game, with a lot of fun and a lot of joy and just not proving anything to anyone. Last year I felt I had to prove something to people. I have no idea why. But I got to that point and it took me away from why I love the game so much and I why I love the NBA. I got away from that.
"This year I got back to my seven years in Cleveland, my four years in high school and when I first picked up a basketball at age 9. That's why I'm more excited about where I'm at today."
In my opinion, I think James should win it. You can read my article about it here.
Best of luck, LeBron!
