As the NBA season hits thirty games, many would say how entertaining this season has been due to things like the MVP race. The race has been amazing to watch as it is every year, putting the spotlight on some of the league’s best.
Some of the top candidates this year have been playing outstanding putting up crazy numbers every game. Here’s an early look at the MVP race.
Joel Embiid
Currently, the 76ers are sitting at an incredible 19-10 record, and are at the top of the eastern conference. They are having a great season so far due to great play by new players like Ben Simmons, Tobias Harris, and Seth Curry.
Although these guys are contributing to the 76ers success, no one is doing as much as Joel Embiid. Embiid is having the best season of his career as he is averaging a double-double per game. In total, he is averaging 29 ppg and 10 boards per game. Every game is complete domination from Embiid.
Whether it is from getting the ball in the paint, or his defensive efforts, he proves to be one of the league’s best. Embiid also makes the players around him better. Due to his size and playstyle, he often attracts two defenders, leaving a man open for an easy shot. Embiid is off to a hot start and continues to make his case for MVP.
LeBron James
After winning the 2020 NBA finals, the Lakers were being questioned if they would be able to repeat their success, as many teams would be back stronger next year. Well, the Lakers have proved that no matter the competition, they will stay great.
Sitting at second in the west, the Lakers are currently 22-7 and getting better. This success is due to several offseason moves, and most importantly, being led by one of the greatest players ever in LeBron James. LeBron has had an amazing career. Every year, he continues to put up great numbers as he is this year.
On the season, LeBron is averaging 25 ppg, eight RPG, and seven APG. He puts up consistent numbers in every category and shows his dominance even at age 36. As LeBron is known for his ability to attack the rim, he has shown he can strive from other areas in the court as he continues to make tough shots from any spot on the court.
LeBron has also shown amazing ability to make tough passes, and a strong defensive game to go with his offensive dominance. James is keeping up his incredible career this season and looks to keep it up.
Stephen Curry’s Case
Stephen Curry has been able to rack up one amazing career. After winning multiple championships, the Warriors missed the playoffs in 2020 due to the exit of star Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson’s injury, and Curry’s wrist injury. Then before the season, Klay re-injured himself and was told he would miss the 2021 season. After this, they made several roster moves and trades, and have finally found their correct team.
After a rough start to the season, the Warriors have been able to move up to seventh in the west, and are 16-13. The main reason for the Warrior’s success is from one man, Stephen Curry. Curry is playing at a phenomenal level. He is averaging 30 PGA, 20 FGA, and has a 66.9 true shooting percentage. He is having one the best seasons of his career, with numbers similar to his MVP season in 2014-15.
Curry has been able to score from everywhere this season. His incredible range continues to improve, as he has also been able to score inside the box, using his speed to get to the rim. Curry keeps showing his shooting skill, and why the Warriors need him, making his case for this year’s MVP.
Overall, it has been a great MVP race to track. It has been marvelous to watch these stars compete at an elite level every game, and show why they are the early candidates for this year’s MVP award.