Every NBA season comes with its excitement, drama, and speculation about who will take home the prestigious MVP award. This year, the race for 2024 is no different. The top contenders are already making their cases, and it's hard not to get caught up in all the analysis and predictions.
First off, let’s talk numbers. Luka Dončić is putting up staggering stats this season. At only 24 years old, he's averaging a triple-double, with over 30 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists per game. Those are video-game-like stats. Last season, he averaged 28.4 points per game and finished in the top five in MVP voting. This year, with improved efficiency and leadership, he is a front-runner for the award. You can’t ignore those figures making waves in the discussion rooms.
Nikola Jokić always enters the MVP conversation, and for good reason. The back-to-back MVP winner in 2021 and 2022 shows no sign of slowing down. His player efficiency rating (PER) this season is hovering around 32, one of the highest in NBA history. During the playoffs, he had a usage rate of 31%, maintaining efficiency while shouldering a significant portion of his team's offensive load. Is he likely to make it three MVPs? The data speaks volumes about his capabilities.
Jayson Tatum is another name making headlines this season. At 26, Tatum's scoring ability is unparalleled. He is averaging 29 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists per game with a true shooting percentage of 61%. Last season, he led the Boston Celtics to the NBA Finals, and this year they’re among the favorites again, making his case robust. If you look at his 3-point shooting accuracy, which is at 39%, it clearly showcases his clutch potential.
The return of Kevin Durant in full form after a string of injuries is awe-inspiring. Durant, often considered one of the most lethal scorers in NBA history, is putting up over 28 points per game. His PER is 29, and he’s shooting an incredible 54% from the field, including 45% from beyond the arc. Durant's influence on winning games and his veteran experience make him a strong contender for MVP. His scoring efficiency can’t be overlooked by anyone serious about understanding the competition.
Ja Morant is making significant waves this season. Averaging 27 points, 8 assists, and 6 rebounds per game, his explosiveness and playmaking abilities have got analysts talking. Morant recorded a 44-inch vertical leap during his draft combine, which remains a testament to his athletic prowess. Even more impressive, he has led the Memphis Grizzlies to one of the top records in the Western Conference, solidifying his place in the MVP race. His young age of 24 and already doing this? Remarkable.
Now let's not forget Joel Embiid, last season’s scoring champion. Embiid is putting up 33 points and 11 rebounds per game. His PER is an impressive 31, and he's blocking an average of 2.2 shots per game. His dominance on both ends of the court makes him a perennial MVP candidate. Considering his health has improved, and he’s playing near 70 games in a season, it shows he’s in prime condition to take home the MVP title.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Greek Freak, is also in the MVP conversation. He's averaging 29 points, 12 rebounds, and 6 assists per game. Giannis continues to influence the game on both sides with his defensive player of the year metrics. His PER of 30 showcases his impact. Remember his 2021 Finals performance where he dropped 50 points in Game 6? That’s the level of dominance he can consistently bring.
Stephen Curry is 35, but age seems to be just a number for him. Averaging 30 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists per game with a true shooting percentage of 64%, Curry’s sharp shooting is still elite. His off-the-ball movement and ability to shoot from anywhere on the court set him apart. Despite the Golden State Warriors’ struggles, Curry's ability to keep them relevant keeps his MVP hopes alive. Considering his shooting range has players defending him 30 feet from the basket, you can't ignore his unique impact.
Anthony Davis is having a resurgent year, putting up 28 points and 13 rebounds per game. His PER is one of the best in the league at 29, and he's leading the Lakers' defense with 2.4 blocks per game. If he stays healthy, which has been a big "if" in the past, Davis could secure his first MVP title. His dominance in the paint, coupled with his ability to stretch the floor, gives the Lakers a vital edge.
Devin Booker is showing he's not just a scorer but an all-around player. At 27, he's putting up 27 points, 6 assists, and 5 rebounds. His importance to the Phoenix Suns’ success cannot be overstated. With a PER of 22 and shooting 47% from the field, Booker’s development as a playmaker and leader is evident. Making it to the NBA Finals in 2021 has given him that extra edge in the MVP race.
What about the dark horses? Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a name coming up more frequently this season. Averaging 31 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds per game for the Oklahoma City Thunder, he's been silently extraordinary. At 25, he's showing maturity beyond his years. His efficiency, with a shooting percentage of 50%, and a PER of 27, makes him deserving of more attention.
You can’t leave out Jimmy Butler when talking about MVP candidates. Although his regular-season stats might not pop, at 23 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists, his leadership and clutch performances for the Miami Heat make him invaluable. His impact becomes more evident in high-stress situations, and his tenacity on defense is unmatched. Remember his Finals run in 2020? Don’t count him out.
While we wait to see who ultimately earns the MVP title, these players are making the current NBA season a joy to watch. Every stat, every performance, every clutch moment adds to the excitement. As fans, it’s thrilling to witness such elite competition.
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