Stats: 22.9 points, 10.6 rebounds
Making the case: Arguably the best power forward in the NBA, LA has the Blazers in second place in the West. His lethal jump shots and post moves are unguardable. On Dec 20 against the Pelicans, he outshined Anthony Davis with 27 points, 12 rebounds, three steals and two blocks. LA held AD to 7 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 blocks in a 26 point blowout win. His skillset would make him a franchise player on any team.
He will be an MVP in the future, but for now he’s No. 3 on my early season NBA MVP list.
Next: Kyle Lowry