Coronavirus be damned, let's not get it twisted: Giannis Antetokounmpo is the NBA's MVP, still. Yes, even over LeBron James
With the NBA on suspension until further notice, this season has been an interesting one nonetheless. While we have gotten accustomed to the Golden State Warriors dominating the league, Antetokounmpo has given the league a breath of fresh air. The Warriors became a dynasty with finesse: ball movement and three-point shooting.
Giannis?
Pure dominance. With the strength and power of LeBron James and the intensity of the late Kobe Bryant.
This season, Giannis Antetokounmpo has been great on all levels. His play has turned the Milwaukee Bucks into the NBA's premier team. Currently, they sit at a league-best 53-12. Giannis' play on both ends of the floor has made the Bucks a hard team to stop.
Statistically, he's doing damage as well. He's third in the NBA in scoring (29.7 points per game) and rebounds (13.7 per game.) He's shooting just under 55 percent (54.7) from the floor and improved his three-point shooting five percentage points from last season (30.6 percent). What makes this so impressive? He's only averaging 30.9 minutes per game.
Think about that.
Now, this doesn't discount the greatness LeBron James has shown this year.
James is leading the NBA in assists (10.6 per game) which is astonishing at this stage of his career. And he's still scoring in surplus (25.7 points per) and owning the glass (7.6 rebounds per). He's also averaging a respectable 34.9 minutes a game at the age 35. Nevertheless, his play has led the Lakers to the best record in the Western Conference (49-14).
But it's important to not get into narratives and storylines. James hasn't won MVP since 2013, and he probably should have more than the four he has. But this isn't about would have, or should have.
It's about right now. Who is the league's most valuable player? Who is currently the best NBA player in the league right now?
Currently, it's Giannis Antetokounmpo . He has transformed the Bucks into the NBA's most complete team. Once Giannis gets rolling, he's become difficult to contain. Opposing teams have to account for him at all times when the Bucks are on defense. On offense, he turns Bucks possessions into a tour de force of power, dominating the paint. Adding in a three-point shot and post moves has increased his efficiency. In transition, well, just pull up YouTube.
While James has the same narrative about him, Giannis and his play are just standing out more. He's productive, making his team better, and doing it in less time on the floor. While James is a great story, Giannis Antetokounmpo is the NBA's deserving MVP in reality.
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