LeBron James: One of two Lakers ranked in the “Too Early” race for MVP?

Anthony Davis may lose the MVP because of the DPOY but that doesn’t mean that he shouldn’t be on the list!

When the discussion for Anthony Davis being on the shortlist for MVP, analytics and media narrative gets in the way. First, let’s discuss the analytic numbers on AD’s resume.

Davis leads the best team in the NBA in scoring (26.1), rebounding (9.2), steals (1.5) and blocks (2.8). As for the blocks, AD not only leads the Lakers in blocked shots but the entire NBA.

Like Giannis Antetokounmpo being the unstoppable force in the Eastern Conference, Davis runs the Western Conference. Before any casual NBA fan starts talking about comparing players and stats, remember AD is suffering from an injured shoulder and sore ribs.

Anthony Davis deserves the MVP, but if he doesn’t it is because of the narrative he set at the beginning of the season. He is on record saying he wants to win the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award.

Based on the defensive performance last Saturday night against Memphis coupled with the 26-27 free throw performance that ended up being a 40 point 20 rebound performance in three quarters in the first game, everyone can see that he deserves to be in the ranking.

But, there’s one guy that is on the top of the mountain.