No. 3 – LeBron James – Cleveland Cavaliers – SF
Key Stats: 26.4 PPG, 8.7 APG, 8.6 RPG, 55% FGP, 119 DRTG
It’s not an NBA MVP race, or list, without LeBron James somewhere in it. LeBron is obviously heading to the tail end of his career, but he is still the best in the world at what he does, which is hoop.
Plus, the fact that the Cavs haven’t won a game this season without LeBron in the lineup – after losing to the Heat earlier this week, Cleveland is 0-7 this year without him – only helps his MVP cause.
Almost averaging a triple-double, LeBron is carrying the primary load for Cleveland regardless how good you think their roster is (it’s not). James has lacked defensive enthusiasm and hustle this regular season, but I doubt that carries over to the NBA Finals.