5. Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City Thunder
Stats: 25.3 points, 9.5 assists, 6.8 rebounds, 29.8 PER
I love Russell Westbrook, I really do. But, unfortunately, as long as Kevin Durant is his teammate in Oklahoma City, there’s no way that he’s going to win the NBA MVP award. He’ll get votes, but he won’t ever win the award.
His numbers are impressive. When he’s on the court, it’s almost a can’t-miss event. He just isn’t the best player on his team. And when you’re not even the best player on your team, there’s no way you’re going to get enough votes to win the NBA’s MVP award.
The Thunder need Westbrook. Kevin Durant needs Westbrook. But taking Westbrook off the team wouldn’t do as much damage as taking Durant off it would. Right now, that’s just the plain truth.
Next: The King