2009-2010 NBA Most Valuable Player Candidates

With nearly half of the basketball season behind us, it’s time to start looking ahead to the most likely MVP candidates. Over the course of the last few seasons, we’ve always seen Kobe and LeBron at the top of the mix. Before that, it was Steve Nash.

Interestingly, all three of these players have made strong arguments for the MVP award. Let’s take a look at some of the top candidates at this point in the season.

Many believe that the favorite right now is Kobe Bryant. Leading the league in scoring and leading the best team in the NBA, his impact on the Lakers is invaluable.

He’s having one of his most efficient seasons statistically and, at 31, he’s playing a mature game that really inspires his teammates to play better basketball.

Another possibility is LeBron James. It’s almost sickening to think about what he’s accomplishing when you look at his stats. Scoring nearly as many as Kobe and averaging nearly a triple-double while shooting close to 50% is just phenomenal.

In Phoenix, there’s Steve Nash. How often do you come across a point guard with a 54% shooting percentage? Not only is that so, but the 35-year-old Nash leads the league in assists per game. Most importantly, the Suns are once again one of the best teams in basketball this year thanks to their great play.

Kevin Durant in Oklahoma City may not be on the All-Star team, but he’s certainly one of the most valuable players in all of basketball. After starting the season 5-31 last year, the Thunder have a remarkable winning record right now.

Lastly, there’s Dirk Nowitzki in Dallas. This iron man gives it his all night after night, and his contributions have led the Mavericks to one of the best records in basketball.