James Harden for MVP?

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Mention the phrase “MVP” to fans of the Houston Rockets, and the first thing most of them think is, 

 “How are voters going to screw James Harden this year?”

Don’t worry, Rocket fans. This year, he will get his due.


Harden is running away with the MVP award. Sure, there was that early-season speed bump with Gianni's Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks. As the season progresses, though, Harden is doing insane things. 


 This Season is shaping to be Hardens year though.

Harden has the combination of statistical brilliance and team success that no other candidate can match at the moment. Antetokounmpo and Lebron James might finish with great numbers but their teams likely won’t sniff the Rockets in wins. Meanwhile, Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving could have a case with their win totals but they will need to come up with truly outstanding stats to match Harden’s current output.
According to Basketball-Reference.com, Harden also leads the NBA in minutes (579), field goal attempts (338), 3-point field goals (70), 3-point attempts (17), free throws (135), free-throw attempts (157), assists (161), points (509), points per game (31.8), assists per game (10.1), assist percentage (52.2) usage percentage (36.3), Offensive Win shares (3.1), Win Shares per 48 minutes (.306), Box Plus/Minus (10.2), Offensive Box Plus/Minus (10.4) and Value Over Replacement Player (1.8).


 This has MVP written all over it



Harden’s statistical lead on the competition is so vast there isn’t even a second place right now, but it’s not just about the numbers. 

 For once, he has the narrative in his favor.

Consider:
  • He’s succeeding even after the “Harden rule” to limit his foul drawing, which takes away the biggest narrative.
  • The “redemption” story, which is a positive narrative.
  • He has the Rockets ahead of the Golden State Warriors at the top of the West.
  • Hes carried the team when Chris Paul was out.
Everything is in his favor right now. He’s the best player on the best team in the best conference while putting up the best numbers (arguably in history), and he even has the best story. He has a case so good this year, even the voters have to acknowledge it.


Written by Stephen Alzugaray

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