The NBA’s In-Season Tournament has generated a lot of buzz and debate within the basketball community. However, amidst all the discussion surrounding the tournament, the MVP race has taken a backseat. As we reach the quarter-season mark, it’s time to refocus our attention on the players vying for the league’s most prestigious individual award.
The usual suspects are once again in the running for the MVP title. Nikola Jokic, Joel Embiid, and Giannis Antetokuonmpo are the frontrunners, with other contenders also in the mix. Jayson Tatum, for example, is expected to receive consideration due to the Boston Celtics’ projected success this season.
Last season, Jokic emerged as the clear MVP, settling the debate over whether he was superior to Embiid or Giannis. However, this season, Embiid is having a career year, making significant strides as a playmaker. He has doubled his assists numbers, showcasing his versatility and impact on the game. While Jokic’s performance this season is not as remarkable as last year’s, it’s worth noting that he is leading the league in rebounds and has increased his scoring output.
With the conclusion of the In-Season Tournament, we can expect a flood of hot takes and on-air debates regarding the MVP race. Media personalities like Kendrick Perkins may even stir up controversy with their passionate opinions. However, it remains to be seen how many voters will feel compelled to rewrite the narrative from last season and reconsider their stance on Jokic as the league’s best player. History has shown that the consensus on the best player often changes after each postseason, leading to self-reflection and revised opinions.
Giannis Antetokounmpo also deserves consideration in the MVP race. He is shooting a remarkable 61 percent from the floor while averaging over 30 points per game. No player in NBA history has ever achieved these scoring numbers while shooting over 60 percent. The closest was Adrian Dantley for the Utah Jazz in the 1982-83 season, averaging 30.1 points on 58 percent shooting. If Giannis maintains his current level of performance, he could create a new milestone and become a strong candidate for the MVP award.
Creating a new club, such as the 30 point-60 percent shooting club, adds an exciting dimension to the MVP race. It gives writers something fresh to discuss and serves as a tiebreaker in the months-long debate. While the chatter around the MVP race may not reach its peak for another month or two, it is sure to intensify once the In-Season Tournament concludes.
As basketball fans, let’s not allow the In-Season Tournament to overshadow the thrilling competition for the MVP award. The performances of Jokic, Embiid, Giannis, and other contenders deserve our attention and appreciation. Let the debate begin, and may the most deserving player emerge victorious.
