NBA: How history tells us who will win the 2017-18 NBA MVP

OAKLAND, CA – APRIL 05: Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the Minnesota Timberwolves is congratulated by Andrew Wiggins #22 after he made a basket against the Golden State Warriors at ORACLE Arena on April 5, 2016 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

8. Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota Timberwolves

It was tempting to put him in the top five. It really was. He’s that good, and barring something unforeseen, the Wolves will nudge, kick and claw their way to 50 wins. Yes, Butler and Wiggins are there, but Towns will be at the center of it all.

So why is he not higher? The record is broken, but the tune is true: the West will be a bloodbath. Out of Minnesota, Memphis, Utah, Denver, New Orleans, Portland, New Orleans, and the Clippers, only four will make the playoffs – and that’s discounting Rick Carlisle’s wizardry.

The Wolves could win 50 and finish ninth or worse. In a loaded field, missing the dance could leave Towns out of the running altogether.