LeBron: 'Steph was definitely the MVP of our league'

The mutual respect between LeBron James and Stephen Curry was a major theme during media day Wednesday.

On the eve of his sixth straight trip to the NBA Finals, James appeared relaxed and eager to clear up his earlier comments regarding Curry being named unanimous MVP.

The Cleveland Cavaliers star believed his words were taken out of context by reporters when he was asked about Curry winning the award last month.

"I made the mistake by even answering the question because I knew where it was going to go, and I guarantee how it was phrased to Steph wasn't how I answered the question," James said. "So obviously his reaction was what it was. And I've been there before as well.

"Steph was definitely the MVP of our league and is the MVP in our league and is a great basketball player, and what he does for this league is amazing."

After Curry was named NBA MVP for a second straight season, James said Curry deserved it, but also said the term most "valuable" is subjective.

"I think he definitely deserved it," James said in early May. "Look at Steph's numbers. He averaged 30, he led the league in steals, he was 90-50-40, and they won 73 (games). Do you have any debate over that, really, when it comes to that award?

"But when you talk about most 'valuable' then you can have a different conversation, so, take nothing away from him, he's definitely deserving of that award, for sure," James said.

"If you do it by a year-to-year basis, I think sometimes the word 'valuable' or best player of the year, you can have different results."

When asked at the time about James' comments, Curry responded by saying he's gotten really good at ignoring people.

James added Wednesday he doesn't see the two as rivals, while Curry said he's more concerned with winning than any spotlight.

"I'm trying to chase rings, and that's all I'm about," Curry said. "So that's where the conversation stops for me."