The Most Valuable Player Award is the most coveted singular player award given at the end of the NBA season and while it is often awarded to the best player on the top ranking team, in certain instances it is given to the most valuable player across the season regardless of their team’s finishing rank.

For example, players like Russell Westbrook, James Harden, and Damian Lillard are going to have a tough time propelling their respective teams to the top of the Western conference, but their individual season statistics show how valuable they really are. On the other hand, players like Chris Paul or a Kawhi Leonard could lead their teams to the top of their conferences while not blowing you away with their numbers and still be considered for the honor.

With all this in mind, ahead are four of the top players making their case to become the NBA’s Most Valuable Player at the end of the season.

1. Russell Westbrook

Season Stats: 31.8 Points Per Game (PPG), 9.6 Rebounds Per Game (RPG), 10.4 Assists Per Game (APG)

With Kevin Durant gone, Russell Westbrook has elevated his game as the lone star for the Oklahoma City Thunder, and this lone star is oh so bright. Westbrook has taken over in every statistical category and is on his way to becoming only the second player in NBA history to average a triple-double, scoring double digits in 3 categories of play, while also keeping the Thunder alive in the competitive Western conference.

2. LeBron James

Season Stats: 23.2 PPG, 8.4 RPG, 9.0 APG

Like Westbrook, LeBron James is extremely close to averaging a triple-double per game on the season. When asked if he could sustain it for an entire 82-game season, James, a 4x MVP winner, stated, “I can do whatever I put my mind to, it’s just my mind ain’t on it.” James’ main focus is keeping the Cleveland Cavaliers at the top of the Eastern conference, in which they currently hold a 9-2 record.

3. Chris Paul

Season Stats: 18.4 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 8.8 APG, 2.9 Steals Per Game (SPG)

Chris Paul is once again proving to be one of the most consistent players, and one of the finest leaders on the basketball court. Commandeering the Los Angeles Clippers to a league best 10-2 record, Paul is directing their offense by getting all of his teammates involved, while also leading the league in steals.

4. James Harden

Season Stats: 28.6 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 12.4 APG

To start the NBA season, newly hired Houston Rockets Head Coach, Mike D’Antoni decided to have James Harden play the point guard position instead of his usual shooting guard position, in which he has played his entire career as. A change in position looks to be paying off, as Harden is leading the league in assists while remaining one of the most lethal scorers in the game.

With those four picks in mind, who do you think is next in line for the coveted MVP award this season? Leave a comment with your most valued player and why they deserve it.