NBA: Top 5 Early MVP Candidates

December 18, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) celebrates after making a three-point basket in front of Oklahoma City Thunder guard Anthony Morrow (2) during the second quarter at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Thunder 114-109. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

3 of 6

Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Anthony Davis, New Orleans Pelicans

Now in his third season, Anthony Davis is putting together an incredible season. He is scoring over six points higher than his career average of 18.5 (24.7 points per game this season). In fact all his numbers this season are higher than his career averages. He is averaging 10.2 rebounds (9.3 career average), 1.6 assists (1.3 career), 1.8 steals (1.3 career) and 2.9 blocks (2.4 career).

Efficiency is what is carrying Davis’ season. His advanced metrics are off the scale. They are like video game numbers instead of real life. His leads the league in PER, with an amazing 33.4. The player closest to him in PER is DeMarcus Cousins at 27.9, but he’s only played in 18 games this season.

Davis is tied with Chris Paul for the highest Offensive Win Shares in the NBA (4.2). His overall Win-Shares is tied with James Harden for tops in the league. His 6.2 Value Over Replacement Player is tied for third in the NBA.

It looks as if Davis’ time with Team USA has helped him immensely this season. He has grown more as a player, and now his ceiling is very high. The Pelicans still might not be contenders, but it won’t be because Davis isn’t trying to get them there. Keep an eye out on this young man. He might not be this season’s MVP, but he will have a few of them before all is said and done with him.

Next: 3. Damian Lillard

Home/NBA