The case against Curry is that he plays alongside the greatest collection of talent in modern history. Still, he's central to the Warriors remaining the odds-on title favorites.

The Joker is the most valuable player on a team projected to finish second in the Western Conference. He's truly unique and irreplaceable. He doesn't really have a hope of winning MVP this year, but his improvement is impressive nonetheless.

PG-13 has assumed dark-horse status during what has largely been a two-man MVP race so far. George's 2018-19 season is the best of his career on both ends of the floor. Defensively, he's routinely locking up the opponent's best scoring wings.

Harden's candidacy depends largely on whether you prioritize individual excellence or team success. Either way, the Rockets have survived an injury-plagued campaign largely because of the Beard's prolific production. Had he not won the award last season, the freshness of his recent heroics would surely carry Harden to victory this year.

The Greek Freak ranks in the top three in each of the four major catch-all stats: PER, Win Shares, BPM, and VORP. As a team, the Bucks are running roughshod through the league, outscoring opponents by 12.3 points per 100 possessions with their superstar on the floor.

Kawhi Leonard: Though the Raptors boast the second-best record in the East, their All-Star wing has simply missed too much time due to "load management" this season.

Rudy Gobert: Owing to his defensive prowess, the Frenchman ranks third in Win Shares, second in Value Over Replacement Player, and eighth in Box Plus/Minus.