Report: NBA execs like LeBron for Finals MVP even if Cavs lose
LeBron James carried the injury-riddled Cleveland Cavaliers to the NBA Finals, and is the only reason they're still alive heading into Game 6. But if the Golden State Warriors clinch the title Tuesday, should James be named MVP of the series?
A majority of league executives, 31-of-50, polled by ESPN's Chris Broussard said James deserves the nod even if the Cavs lose the series.
There's a case to be made for James, and certainly if the word "valuable" is taken into full consideration.
| NBA Finals | MPG | PTS | REB | AST | USG% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LeBron James | 45.6 | 36.6 | 12.4 | 8.8 | 41.3 |
The last time the NBA produced a Finals MVP from a losing team was Jerry West in 1969. The last time it occurred in any of the "big four" North American sports was when Jean-Sebastien Giguere was awarded the NHL's Conn Smythe Trophy in 2003.
Should the Warriors win, it's hard to believe James will be named Finals MVP, and it's debatable whether he'd even want the trophy.
Heading into Game 6, Stephen Curry or Andre Iguodala - the closest thing to a "LeBron stopper" there has been - are probably the safest bets for the honor.
However, the series isn't over just yet.