NBA: 5 early-season dark horse MVP candidates

2. Pascal Siakam, Toronto Raptors

Coming into this season, many questions circulated around the league pertaining to Pascal Siakam and the Toronto Raptors. With Kawhi Leonard’s departure the Raptors had a glaring hole that needed to be filled. And rightfully so, it was filled by ascending star Pascal Siakam.

Coming off a season being named Most Improved Player and winning a championship, Siakam has elevated his level of play into All-Star status and, furthermore, MVP status.

The Cameroonian star averages 27.4 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 3.7 assists, while shooting 49 percent from the field and an improved 37 percent from 3.

Standing at 6-foot-10, Siakam has a decent handle that allows him to move freely on the offensive end. More importantly, he doesn’t have to depend on guards to set him up offensively, unlike many others at his position.

Siakam is extremely talented when it comes to transition basketball. He can gather a defensive rebound and take it coast to coast all on his own. His body-type and quickness make him a very versatile player that can guard multiple positions as he is very active defensively. The versatility and improved shooting stroke of Siakam has Toronto playing as good as any.

The Raptors are currently third in the Eastern Conference with a 7-3 record. It has become imminent that Toronto has found their next star, as he has immersed himself into MVP consideration thus far.