3 Reasons LeBron James Actually Doesn't Deserve MVP This Season
By Tyler Kemp
17 years into his NBA career, LeBron James is still playing at an MVP level. His Lakers are at the top of the West, and he deserves most of the credit for that. As a result, James will definitely be in the MVP conversation going into the league’s restart at the end of July. While LeBron has been playing great, here are a few factors working against him in his MVP argument.
3. He Flat Out Said He Doesn't Care About Winning It
"Regular season MVP has never motivated me. … to be the best to ever play the game has motivated me and it’s resulted in me being able to be league MVP a couple of times.”
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) March 5, 2020
LeBron says being the greatest ever is what motivates him. pic.twitter.com/c8J9TQBHV9
The media is the group that has the most pull in the voting percentages for NBA awards. This means the awards are all about pushing narratives. When the basketball world hears from one of its best players, who defiantly states he does not care about winning MVP, that can strike a chord with voters immediately.
2. An Argument for Anthony Davis
Playing alongside Anthony Davis brings with it another superstar to lean on. The likes of Luka Doncic and James Harden -- while playing alongside talented players in their own right -- don't have an all-around stud the likes of Davis. While it may be unfair, the talent around LeBron can and should be a detriment to his MVP chances.
1. There's a Greek Freak in Milwaukee Standing in LeBron's Way
Giannis has followed up one historic season with another that could lead to back-to-back MVP’s. Not only is Antetokounmpo averaging nearly 30 points, 14 rebounds, six assists, one steal and one block to lead Milwaukee in all major statistical categories, but the Bucks have the best record in the entire league. The factors of Giannis’ individual production and his team success make him the perfect adversary for LeBron’s fifth MVP.