Every NBA team’s MVP, from Kevin Durant to LeBron James
By Tom West
Milwaukee Bucks: Giannis Antetokounmpo (only for now)
The Greek Freak is still far from being the most polished player in the NBA, but his rare combination of size at 6’11” with tremendous athleticism lets him impact the game in so many ways. The Bucks’ MVP would go to Jabari Parker, and he genuinely is their most important player. He’s incredibly skilled and will emerge as their offensive star once he’s able to consistently be on the court.
However, as of December 2015 while Parker’s playing time is only just returning to normal as he’s settling back in after injury (only 24.4 minutes per game), Giannis is Milwaukee’s MVP for now. Once Parker’s minutes increase and he’s delivering on a consistent basis, though, he’ll take this title.
As for Giannis, he can simply do things that no other players can. He can eurostep from the three point line, he can take the ball down the court in transition with a few of dribbles, he’s faster than practically any 6’11” player you could hope to see, and he causes mismatches at both ends of the court. Players his size just aren’t meant to be so fast and have such good ball handling. Yet, that’s the case for Giannis. The name Greek Freak really does seem apt.
He’s taken a major step forward this season, and reached a career-high 16.0 points per game (up from 12.7 a year ago) with more refined spin moves, slightly more range, and even stronger finishing inside when he tirelessly drives to the basket. Just look at the career-high 33 points he was able to put together against the Cavaliers a few weeks ago:
He can be switched around on defense too, as he posses enough quickness to go out on the perimeter while having the size to contest at the rim. His 6.1 rebounds, 0.9 steals and 1.1 blocks per game also indicate his well rounded game as a player who spends most of his time at small forward.
Giannis has such potential as one of the most diverse players the NBA has seen, and he’s already taking strides forward and showcasing his rare talent even more this season. That’s why until Parker is at his best, Antetokounmpo has earned this spot.
Next: Detroit Pistons