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- Troy BallardThe NBA season is in full-gear, and as every game cruises by, there is a set of unique players that are standing out from the rest of the association and making a strong case for MVP consideration.
Here is Beard and Stache's 2012 NBA MVP predictions:
#5. Dwight Howard, Center, Orlando Magic
Points Per Game: 20.6 - Rebounds Per Game: 15.5 - Assists Per Game: 2.0 - Efficiency Rating: +26.61
There are few players, if any, in the NBA that have the kind of impact that Dwight Howard has on the court. Every game he locks down the paint, destroys on the offensive end, and is a total monster on the glass. His value to the Magic is beyond that of any player in Orlando, and he has secured himself as the most dominant center in the NBA.
Howard is a lock for his fourth-straight Defensive Player of the Year award, and continues to get better and better every night. Also, don't forget, Howard is practically averaging 20 and 20 a night and showing excellent maturity with huge question marks and immense pressure surrounding his future with the Magic.
#4. Chris Paul, Guard, Los Angeles Clippers
PPG: 18.7 - RPG: 3.60 - APG: 9.1 - EFF: +24.25
Chris Paul was dealt out of New Orleans and to the Clippers in a blockbuster deal before the season tipped-off. Since landing in Los Angeles, Paul has dominated on the court, leading the Clips' to first place in the Pacific Conference.
The combination of Paul and Blake Griffin is as amazing as everyone predicted, and the two work flawlessly with each other. However, even with Griffin, LA's offense can go cold, but Paul is right there to pick it up again. Combine that with his solid defensive contributions, and CP3 deserves a nod or two for the MVP award.
#3. Kobe Bryant, Guard, Los Angeles Lakers
PPG: 29.3 - RPG: 5.80 - APG: 5.0 - EFF: +23.29
Kobe Bryant is still one of the best players in the NBA, even at 33 years old. The Mamba is leading the NBA in points per game, and has been a beast on defense, despite frequent back-to-back games. He's literally the only reason the Lakers are still in contention this season, and without him they would likely be a sub .500 team. His contribution to Los Angeles is something that can't be put into words, and he is the very beating heart of the Lakers.
Although it usually draws more debate than it should, I'd venture to say that Bryant is the best player in the NBA. However, the MVP is not always the 'best' player, but the most impressive.
#2. LeBron James, Forward, Miami Heat
PPG: 28.1 - RPG: 8.0 - APG: 7.0 - EFF: +30.58
It will likely be a long time, if ever, before the general public shows any love for LeBron James. But as James and the Miami Heat have proven, they don't need love to dominate and win games. Like usual, James is amazing us with his smothering defense and seemingly un-stoppable offensive game.
Some will complain that James isn't doing as much as the other candidates because he is flanked by Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh. This is true, but it doesn't change the fact that James simply takes over games, and when he does, Wade and Bosh don't even touch the ball.
#1. Kevin Durant, Forward, Oklahoma City Thunder
PPG: 27.0 - RPG: 8.20 - APG: 3.3 - EFF: +26.48
What can't Kevin Durant do? The monster known as Durantula lives and breathes basketball and there is not a single player in the world that can stop him. The Oklahoma City Thunder have the best record in the NBA and the run has been fueled behind Durant's absolutely unbelievable play.
This kid has been flirting with winning an MVP award for the past few seasons, and this year may be the one he cashes in. There is no denying the talent that Durant has, and unless something goes very wrong in OKC, he'll continue to dominate.
Who is your vote for MVP this season?
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