With most NBA teams reaching the midpoint of their schedules this week, it's a good time to check in on how the race for Most Valuable Player is shaping up.
Early on there seemed to be a sentiment to get LeBron James his 5th MVP award, and he still looks to be one of the top contenders. James’ all-around play had lifted the Lakers into contention for a top 4 seed in the West, and when he went out recently because of a groin injury, L.A. immediately lost 5 of its next 6 games.
James' stats this season are almost identical to his career norms.