Experts at ESPN recently gathered to take part in a series of predictions for the 2019-20 NBA season. As part of their deliberations, the analysts projected that Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James will finish third in the race for the 2019-20 MVP award.

Though he missed a portion of the 2018-19 regular-season campaign due to a groin injury, James still managed to rack up some impressive statistical figures. Through 55 appearances (all starts), The King turned in averages of 27.4 points on 51.0 percent shooting from the field (33.9 percent from beyond the arc), 8.5 rebounds, 8.3 assists and 1.3 steals in 35.2 minutes per outing.

Last season, Bucks All-Star Giannis Antetokounmpo claimed the NBA's MVP award. The Greek Freak is favored once again, followed by Warriors point guard Stephen Curry at second and James at third:

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Via ESPN:

1. Giannis Antetokounmpo | Milwaukee Bucks: 90 points (30.3% first-place votes)

2. Stephen Curry | Golden State Warriors: 63 points (27.3% first-place votes)

3. LeBron James | Los Angeles Lakers: 34 points (12.1% first-place votes)

4. Joel Embiid | Philadelphia 76ers: 33 points (15.2% first-place votes)

5. Anthony Davis | Los Angeles Lakers: 25 points (9.1% first-place votes)

6. Nikola Jokic | Denver Nuggets: 19 points (3% first-place votes)

7. Kawhi Leonard | LA Clippers: 16 points (3% first-place votes)

Respecting Antetokounmpo's reign as MVP is reasonable. Placing James at third, however, could light a fire of motivation. And with the acquisition of Anthony Davis in the offseason, the Lakers will undoubtedly be looking to make a push for the playoffs.