Jan 23, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) reacts against the Phoenix Suns at US Airways Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
MVP: James Harden (Houston Rockets)
Without question this was the hardest selection to make out of all of the Mid-Season Awards. James Harden’s conversion into a legitimate two-way player has elevated him to a new level of super-stardom. He IS the offense this year for a team that has managed the league’s 5th best record.
“The Bearded One” has blossomed into an offensive juggernaut this season while finally solidifying his frequently mocked defensive instincts. He leads the NBA in not just points per game (27.0), but offensive win shares as well. He adds to that by also holding the 5th spot in defensive win shares in the NBA, meaning that combined he contributes more wins to his team than any other player in the league.
Space City Scoop
The NBA’s Most Valuable Player award should be given to the player of greatest value, and in the category of value over replacement, Harden is the highest ranked player in the association. He exemplifies the best of the modern NBA landscape because his makes and attempts from the free throw line are both league leading, and his makes and attempts from beyond the 3-point arc are both good for top-5 in the NBA.
Runner Up: Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors)
Again Warriors fans, I truly apologize. Stephen Curry has had an incredible season to this point, and quite frankly I’d love to see him kick it up another gear and prove me wrong in the second half by winning the trophy by year’s end. His win shares, value over replacement, perimeter prowess, near double-double average, and efficiency are all reasons he is without a doubt a worthy MVP candidate. However once again, the presence of so many Warriors in award contention speaks to how much help he is getting.
All in all though, whether it be Harden or Curry, it looks like the 2014-15 season will be capped off with a new man holding the coveted MVP trophy.
Next: Has Jamaal Charles Lost a Step?
More from Sir Charles In Charge
- LeBron James working to assemble super team for USA Basketball in 2024
- Dillon Brooks proved his value to Houston Rockets in the 2023 FIBA World Cup
- NBA Trade Rumors: 1 Player from each team most likely to be traded in-season
- Golden State Warriors: Buy or sell Chris Paul being a day 1 starter
- Does Christian Wood make the Los Angeles Lakers a legit contender?