Updated NBA MVP odds: LeBron James remains the favorite

December 1, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers point guard Chris Paul (3) controls the ball against the defense of Indiana Pacers small forward Paul George (24) during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

In what should come as no surprise, Miami Heat forward LeBron James remains the favorite. Oklahoma State Thunder forward Kevin Durant remains second, which was also expected.

Indiana Pacers’ forward Paul George has been one of the biggest stories of the season. During the 2013 postseason, it appeared he had taken the next step. There is no reason to doubt that now. George is averaging 24.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 2.2 steals per game. It’s unfortunate for George that he is playing at the same time as James and, to a lesser extent, Durant, because he is truly playing at an MVP level.

Chicago Bulls’ point guard Derrick Rose was once third on this list, but his injury has removed him from consideration.

The top five is rounded out by a pair of guards in Chris Paul of the Los Angeles Clippers and Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors.

2013-14 NBA MVP – Odds to Win

LeBron James (MIA)

4/5

Kevin Durant (OKC)

4/1

Paul George (IND)

11/2

Chris Paul (LAC)

6/1

Stephen Curry (GS)

15/1

Kevin Love (MIN)

20/1

Carmelo Anthony (NY) 25/1

James Harden (HOU)

25/1

Tony Parker (SA)

25/1

LaMarcus Aldridge (POR) 40/1

Dwight Howard (HOU)

40/1

Damian Lilliard (POR)

40/1

John Wall (WAS)

40/1

Russell Westbrook (OKC) 40/1

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