National Basketball Association

NBA Player Power Rankings: 2017 All-Star Weekend Edition

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 8:14 p.m. ET

Fansided, Maxwell Ogden/FanSided via Hoops Habit

Feb 11, 2017; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Golden State Warriors forward and NBA All-Star Kevin Durant (35) fights for position with Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) during the second quarter at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports

The 2017 NBA All-Star Break has officially arrived. Which players have emerged as the frontrunners for the All-NBA teams and the 2017 NBA MVP award?

The 2017 NBA All-Star Break has officially arrived. Teams will be granted the opportunity to rest, stars will take center stage at All-Star Weekend, and coaches and general managers will plot ways to validate their championship aspirations.

As the players, coaches, and executives prepare for the final months of the 2016-17 NBA regular season, it’s only fair to reflect on what’s already transpired.

Writing with no hyperbole whatsoever, the 2016-17 NBA regular season has been one of the most prolific in league history. Individual players are being unleashed on the Association in a way that it hasn’t been exposed to in decades.

No matter what it is that you chalk the spike in production up to, one thing has become abundantly clear in 2016-17: the race for MVP is as intriguing as it’s ever been.

One could argue that there are more than a handful of players who have a legitimate shot at winning MVP. Not only are players producing at all-time levels, but they’re elevating those around them and helping their respective teams overachieve.

That combination has inevitably created a race for the 2017 NBA MVP award that’s on pace to go down as one of the greatest in league history.

Feb 10, 2017; New York, NY, USA; Denver Nuggets power forward Nikola Jokic (15) warms up before a game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

20. Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets

Position: Center
Age: 21 (2/19/1995)
Experience: 2nd Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .580/.365/.816
2016-17 Season Averages: 26.9 MPG, 16.3 PPG, 9.0 RPG, 4.3 APG, 3.1 ORPG, 0.8 BPG, 0.8 SPG, 0.6 3PM

Some may question whether or not Nikola Jokic deserves to be listed, but he’s been steadily building towards a Top 20 ranking. He ranks No. 13 in the NBA in Real Plus-Minus, is shooting 58.0 percent from the field, and has the Denver Nuggets at No. 8 in the Western Conference.

This past week, Jokic silenced his critics with two of the best performances that any player has put forth during the 2016-17 season.

Since Christmas Day, Jokic has averaged 22.2 points, 10.8 rebounds, 4.1 offensive rebounds, 5.5 assists, 1.0 block, 1.0 steal, and 1.0 3-point field goal made in 22 games. Though those numbers may appear to be unsustainable, that may not actually be the case.

Jokic’s full season averages translate to 21.8 points, 12.0 rebounds, 4.2 offensive rebounds, 5.8 assists, 1.1 blocks, 1.0 steal, and 0.8 3-point field goals made per 36 minutes.

Jokic began this past week by scoring a career-high 40 points on 17-of-23 shooting against the New York Knicks. Just three days later, he posted 17 points, 21 rebounds, and 12 assists in a stunning upset of the Golden State Warriors.

For what it’s worth, Denver has a team-best net rating of +4.6 with Jokic on the floor and a team-worst net rating of -8.5 without him—a difference of 13.1 points per 100 possessions.

Feb 15, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) dunks the ball past Brooklyn Nets forward Joe Harris (12) during the second quarter at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports

19. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks

Position: Small Forward
Age: 22 (12/6/1994)
Experience: 4th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .524/.275/.792
2016-17 Season Averages: 35.4 MPG, 23.4 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 5.5 APG, 1.9 ORPG, 2.0 BPG, 1.8 SPG, 0.7 3PM

Three small forwards could have been selected for this spot: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Paul George, and Gordon Hayward. George and Hayward are featured scorers on postseason-caliber teams and Antetokounmpo ranks amongst the most well-rounded players in the NBA.

Though it’s hard not to reward winning, Antetokounmpo has played at a level in 2016-17 that deserves to be recognized and honored with a Top 20 ranking.

Despite the loss of Jabari Parker to a season-ending knee injury, Antetokounmpo has Milwaukee on a three-game winning streak entering All-Star Weekend. He posted 20 points, 10 assists, eight rebounds, two blocks, and a steal in a win over Paul George and the Indiana Pacers.

He then played a team-high 37 minutes in a win over the Detroit Pistons and posted 33 points in a 129-125 victory over the Brooklyn Nets.

55 games into the 2016-17 NBA regular season, Antetokounmpo is the only player in the NBA who leads his team in points, rebounds, assists, blocks, and steals per game. He ranks No. 15 in the NBA in RPM and has an almost unrivaled level of versatility.

For what it’s worth, Antetokounmpo is on pace to become the first player to average at least 20.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 2.0 blocks, and 1.0 steal per game since Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in 1975-76.

Feb 15, 2017; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan (10) dribbles the ball during the second half of a 90-85 win over the Charlotte Hornets at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

18. DeMar DeRozan, Toronto Raptors

Position: Shooting Guard
Age: 27 (8/7/1989)
Experience: 8th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .464/.253/.845
2016-17 Season Averages: 35.5 MPG, 27.3 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.1 SPG

It’s easy to dismiss DeMar DeRozan as a scorer who doesn’t conform to conventional standards for offensive execution. He rarely converts or attempts 3-point field goals and relies heavily on midrange jump shots.

True as that all may be, there’s no rational way to dispute the value of a player averaging 27.3 points per game on a team that’s on pace to win 47 games.

Toronto is averaging 108.5 points per game, meaning DeRozan is accounting for more than 25 percent of the Raptors’ offense with just his scoring. He’s providing those points in an efficient manner and is getting to the free throw line with relative ease.

DeRozan is No. 6 in the NBA with an average of 8.6 free throw attempts per game—34.1 percent of Toronto’s team attempts per game from the charity stripe.

Toronto hasn’t yet performed at an elite level on defense, and is instead riding its offense to victory. Kyle Lowry may be the catalyst on both ends of the floor, but DeRozan is the primary scoring option for an elite offensive team.

Though he doesn’t show well in the advanced metrics, DeRozan is one of the best players in the NBA and one of the keys to Toronto’s championship aspirations.

Feb 15, 2017; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving (2) drives to the basket against Indiana Pacers guard Jeff Teague (44) during the second half at Quicken Loans Arena. The Cavs won 113-104. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

17. Kyrie Irving, Cleveland Cavaliers

Position: Point Guard
Age: 24 (3/23/1992)
Experience: 6th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .462/.389/.906
2016-17 Season Averages: 35.2 MPG, 24.4 PPG, 5.9 APG, 3.1 RPG, 1.2 SPG, 2.4 3PM

Never before has Kyrie Irving carried the burden that he’s about to for the Cleveland Cavaliers. With Kevin Love sidelined by a knee injury, the Cavaliers will need Irving to step up and be the superstar that LeBron James believes he can be.

Thankfully for the Cavaliers, Irving has carried his weight since Love went down by stepping up with a number of clutch performances.

To begin this past week, Irving posted 27 points and five assists in a 125-109 victory over the Denver Nuggets. He then posted 25 points and seven assists during a 116-108 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

For good measure, Irving lit up Jeff Teague and the Indiana Pacers for 26 points, seven assists, and two steals in a 113-104 victory.

Irving has proven throughout his tenure with the Cavaliers that he’s capable of taking over games in the fourth quarter. That’s an invaluable strength, specifically for a team that asks LeBron James to carry a heavy burden and often needs a different player to step up in the clutch.

Never afraid of taking the deciding shot, Irving will need to re-establish himself as the clutch maestro he is for Cleveland to overcome Love’s injury.

Feb 15, 2017; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert (27) high fives Utah Jazz forward Gordon Hayward (20) in the second quarter at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports

16. Rudy Gobert, Utah Jazz

Position: Center
Age: 24 (6/26/1992)
Experience: 4th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .640/.000/.662
2016-17 Season Averages: 33.5 MPG, 12.9 PPG, 12.6 RPG, 3.9 ORPG, 1.0 APG, 2.5 BPG

The Utah Jazz are entering the All-Star Break with a 35-22 record and a realistic opportunity to finish in the Top 4 of the Western Conference. It’s just seven wins away from securing its first winning season since 2013 and is on pace to win its first division title since 2008.

The key to Utah’s success has been execution on the defensive end of the floor and star center Rudy Gobert is the interior anchor.

Gobert ranks No. 1 in the Association in Defensive Real Plus-Minus and Utah is tied for No. 2 in the NBA in points allowed per 100 possessions. With Gobert on the court, the Jazz are allowing 99.7 points allowed per 100 possessions.

When Gobert isn’t on the court, however, the Jazz are allowing a team-worst average of 105.9 points per 100 possessions.

In other words: the Jazz are an elite defensive team with Gobert on the court and a below-average defensive team without him. He’s also improved his overall level of offensive proficiency with the manner in which he catches passes, finishes in traffic, and converts at the free throw line.

Gobert is a phenomenal defensive player and the anchor of one of the most dominant units in the NBA. He deserves a Top 20 ranking.

Feb 13, 2017; Portland, OR, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap (4) posts up against Portland Trail Blazers forward Noah Vonleh (21) during the first quarter at the Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Craig Mitchelldyer-USA TODAY Sports

15. Paul Millsap, Atlanta Hawks

Position: Power Forward
Age: 32 (2/10/1985)
Experience: 11th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .439/.327/.763
2016-17 Season Averages: 34.2 MPG, 17.9 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 1.7 ORPG, 3.8 APG, 1.5 SPG, 1.0 BPG, 1.2 3PM

The Atlanta Hawks have built a team that relies on defensive commitment, teamwork, and ball movement. No player better embodies the team identity than starting power forward and four-time All-Star Paul Millsap.

Millsap is as selfless a star as one can find and one of the most versatile and proficient defensive players in the NBA.

Millsap displayed the vast nature of his versatility during a recent win over the Portland Trail Blazers. He finished with 21 points, nine rebounds, five assists, four blocks, two steals, a 3-point field goal made, and a clutch buzzer beater to force overtime in a 109-104 victory.

Millsap is well below his expected marks from a scoring efficiency perspective, but his value to the Hawks remains nothing short of vital.

Atlanta is eight games above .500 at 32-24, but it would likely be well below .500 without Millsap’s presence. That much is proven in the fact that Atlanta has net ratings of +2.6 with Millsap on the court and a team-worst -6.5 without him.

Millsap is one of the most complete players in the NBA and has earned his status as a Top 20 mainstay in 2016-17.

Feb 10, 2017; Memphis, TN, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) dribbles in the second half against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Golden State defeated Memphis 122-107. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

14. Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors

Position: Power Forward
Age: 26 (3/4/1990)
Experience: 5th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .433/.319/.674
2016-17 Season Averages: 32.9 MPG, 10.2 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 7.3 APG, 1.4 ORPG, 2.1 SPG, 1.5 BPG, 1.1 3PM

There aren’t many players in the NBA who don’t need to score in order to legitimately dominate. That’s been the story of Draymond Green’s career with the Golden State Warriors, as well as his collegiate career with the Michigan State Spartans.

Despite receiving just six shot attempts, Green had the confidence and maturity to flirt with an elusive quadruple-double.

Green destroyed the Memphis Grizzlies with four points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists, 10 steals, and five blocks. It was the first time in NBA history that a player recorded a triple-double without scoring at least 10 points.

The next time out, Green posted six points, eight rebounds, eight assists, three steals, and a block in a win over the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Green’s numbers don’t always jump off the page, but his near quadruple-double is the perfect display of his versatility. Not only is he one of the best defensive players in the NBA, but his offensive game is remarkably versatile.

If the Warriors are going to realize their potential as the most star-studded team of all-time, it’s going to be Green who’s the glue.

Feb 14, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Sacramento Kings forward DeMarcus Cousins (15) moves the ball against the Los Angeles Lakers during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

13. DeMarcus Cousins, Sacramento Kings

Position: Center
Age: 26 (8/13/1990)
Experience: 7th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .452/.356/.770
2016-17 Season Averages: 34.4 MPG, 27.6 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 4.8 APG, 2.1 ORPG, 1.4 SPG, 1.3 BPG, 1.7 3PM

The Sacramento Kings lost Rudy Gay to a torn achilles tendon and are nine games below .500 with just 25 games remaining in 2016-17. Though DeMarcus Cousins is one of the most polarizing players in the NBA, he’s keeping the Kings’ postseason hopes alive.

When Cousins is on the court, the Kings have a chance to overcome any and every opponent put in their way—even if the odds aren’t always in their favor.

Sacramento has won four of its past five games and is 7-7 over the course of its past 14 contests. During that time, Cousins is averaging 26.8 points, 12.5 rebounds, 2.4 offensive rebounds, 6.8 assists, 1.3 steals, 1.1 blocks, and 1.5 3-point field goals made per game.

During his four appearances this past week, Cousins averaged 25.8 points, 10.3 rebounds, 7.0 assists, 1.5 steals, 1.0 block, and 1.3 3-point field goals made per game.

Cousins is on pace to join Russell Westbrook as the first players to average at least 27.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game since Chris Webber in 2000-01. That alone embodies what makes him such a special player.

Following the 40 points, 12 rebounds, and eight assists he posted against the Los Angeles Lakers, it’s safe to assume Cousins isn’t going to slow down any time soon.

Feb 15, 2017; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol (33) reacts during the first half against the New Orleans Pelicans at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports

12. Marc Gasol, Memphis Grizzlies

Position: Center
Age: 32 (1/29/1985)
Experience: 9th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .466/.385/.846
2016-17 Season Averages: 34.4 MPG, 20.3 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 4.3 APG, 1.4 BPG, 1.0 SPG, 1.4 3PM

The Memphis Grizzlies have been one of the most consistent teams in the NBA for what’s approacing a decade. Memphis has reached the playoffs in six consecutive seasons and is on pace to do so again in 2016-17.

Gasol’s shooting touch has been off in recent games, but his ability to score, facilitate, and defend at elite levels for his position are invaluable strengths.

Gasol is essentially the NBA’s version of Manuel Neuer. Rather than staying in his lane and filling the duties of a conventional defensive player, he freelances on defense and covers enough ground to influence everything the opposition attempts to do.

Memphis ranks No. 4 in the NBA in points allowed per 100 possessions and it’s Gasol who anchors that dominant defensive front.

On the offensive end of the floor, Gasol can score from anywhere on the court and is a phenomenal passer with guard-like vision. The numbers prove it. Gasol is No. 3 amongst centers in both points per game and points created via assists per game.

If the Grizzlies are going to close out the season strong and make it seven consecutive postseason appearances, Gasol will be the key.

Feb 15, 2017; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors guard Kyle Lowry (7) dribbles the ball during the second half of a 90-85 win over the Charlotte Hornets at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

11. Kyle Lowry, Toronto Raptors

Position: Point Guard
Age: 30 (3/25/1986)
Experience: 11th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .463/.417/.826
2016-17 Season Averages: 37.7 MPG, 22.8 PPG, 6.9 APG, 4.7 RPG, 1.4 SPG, 3.3 3PM

As previously alluded to, the Toronto Raptors have made a power move by trading for Serge Ibaka. No player projects to benefit more from the move than Jonas Valanciunas, but All-NBA point guard Kyle Lowry is a close No. 2.

Lowry has been unable to take as many chances on defense during the 2016-17 NBA regular season, but with Ibaka behind him, expect Lowry to improve on both ends.

At 30 years of age, Lowry is in the midst of a career year that includes career-best marks from the field and beyond the 3-point line. That rise in efficiency has coincided with Lowry averaging a career-high 22.8 points per game.

Now with a two-way player who can protect the rim and space the floor at power forward, Lowry can be expected to produce at a higher level on both ends.

Lowry ranks No. 4 in the NBA in Real Plus-Minus and is making his third career All-Star Game appearance. At 30 years of age, he’s better than ever before and looking the part of a superstar point guard.

Lowry is a two-way player who has Toronto primed and ready for a resurgent rise back up the Eastern Conference standings.

Jan 24, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) drives to the basket against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Amway Center. Chicago Bulls defeated the Orlando Magic 100-92. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

10. Jimmy Butler, Chicago Bulls

Position: Center
Age: 27 (9/14/1989)
Experience: 6th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .452/.337/.868
2016-17 Season Averages: 36.6 MPG, 24.5 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.8 SPG, 1.2 3PM

Jimmy Butler returned from a heel injury with a lackluster performance against the Phoenix Suns. Thankfully, Butler redeemed himself by putting forth a triple-double in a 105-94 victory over the Toronto Raptors.

With Butler back and healthy, the Bulls can now solidify their status as a postseason-caliber team with a push for an above .500 record.

Despite playing in a tumultuous situation in Chicago, Butler is on pace to set career-best marks in points, rebounds, assists, and steals per game. He’s also maintained his status as one of the best defensive players in the NBA.

Widely regarded as being on the cusp of elite status, Butler will have a chance to make the leap during the final stretch of the season.

A testament to Butler’s status as one of the most valuable players in the NBA is his ranking of No. 3 in Real Plus-Minus. That comes in spite of the fact that Chicago is two games below .500 entering the All-Star Break.

For perspective, the Bulls have net ratings of +3.0 with Butler on the court and -9.7 when he isn’t—a difference of 12.7 points per 100 possessions.

Feb 15, 2017; Memphis, TN, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis (23) and head coach Alvin Gentry talk during the second half against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. New Orleans defeated Memphis 95-91. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports

9. Anthony Davis, New Orleans Pelicans

Position: Power Forward
Age: 23 (3/11/1993)
Experience: 5th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .504/.306/.801
2016-17 Season Averages: 36.4 MPG, 27.7 PPG, 11.9 RPG, 2.2 ORPG, 2.2 APG, 2.5 BPG, 1.3 SPG, 0.5 3PM

If ever the day comes when the New Orleans Pelicans have a healthy and balanced roster, Anthony Davis will solidify his legacy. Even at 23 years of age, he’s already an All-NBA First Team player who’s averaging Dream-like numbers.

That may sound hyperbolic, but Davis is indeed on pace to record averages the NBA hasn’t seen since Hakeem Olajuwon was dominating in 1993-94.

If his numbers hold, Davis would be the first player to average at least 27.0 points, 11.0 rebounds, 2.0 blocks, and 1.0 steal per game since Olajuwon. Before Olajuwon, those numbers hadn’t been accumulated since Kareem Abdul-Jabbar did it in 1975-76.

Any time a player is producing in a way that’s comparable to Abdul-Jabbar and Olajuwon in their respective primes, they deserve a Top 10 ranking.

New Orleans is still attempting to find its identity as a team, but it’s been quietly thriving. It’s won three of four, as well as four of six, and Davis has it within 2.5 games of the No. 8 seed in the Western Conference.

It may be an ugly season at the bottom of the postseason standings, but Davis is as deserving of a postseason appearance as any player on a below .500 team could be.

Feb 13, 2017; Denver, CO, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) shoots the ball during the second half against the Denver Nuggets at Pepsi Center. The Nuggets won 132-110. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

8. Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors

Position: Point Guard
Age: 28 (3/14/1988)
Experience: 8th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .469/.410/.916
2016-17 Season Averages: 33.4 MPG, 24.7 PPG, 6.4 APG, 4.3 RPG, 1.7 SPG, 4.0 3PM

Stephen Curry climbed back into the MVP discussion with a stretch of legitimately dominant performances. Between Jan. 4 and Feb. 4, Curry averaged 29.5 points, 7.5 assists, 4.5 rebounds, 1.9 steals, and 5.4 3-point field goals made on a slash line of .500/.466/.862.

Over the past five games, however, Curry’s numbers have dropped to 16.2 points, 6.8 assists, 4.2 rebounds, 0.8 steals, and 2.0 3-point field goals made on a slash line of .373/.250/.882.

Curry posted 26 points, nine assists, eight rebounds, and two steals during the Golden State Warriors’ emotional win over the Oklahoma City Thunder. The four games surrounding that performance, however, have been uncharacteristically poor.

Curry easily maintains his Top 10 ranking, but with so many stars elevating their game over the past two months, it’s hard to isolate a 15-game stretch and ignore the rest.

The luxury afforded to Curry is that, with three All-NBA teammates, his team can win in spite of his struggles. Nevertheless, it would be silly to deny that Curry makes the Warriors a significantly more lethal team on the offensive end of the floor.

Curry is a human highlight reel, the most unstoppable 3-point shooter of all-time, and a two-time NBA MVP. All that should be on his mind now is winning.

Feb 8, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Washington Wizards guard John Wall (2) during first half against Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports

7. John Wall, Washington Wizards

Position: Point Guard
Age: 26 (9/6/1990)
Experience: 7th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .452/.313/.812
2016-17 Season Averages: 36.6 MPG, 22.8 PPG, 10.6 APG, 4.4 RPG, 2.1 SPG, 1.1 3PM

Since Jan. 1, only the Golden State Warriors have a better record than the Washington Wizards. The Wizards are 17-5 since Jan. 1, and while the likes of Bradley Beal and Otto Porter Jr. have been sensational, it’s John Wall who remains the catalyst to Washington’s success.

Wall gets it done on both ends of the floor and is the creator for what’s become an explosive offensive team in Washington.

Wall is the only player in the NBA who’s currently averaging at least 20.0 points, 10.0 assists, and 2.0 steals per game. He’s creating 25.3 points per game via his assists, which ranks No. 2 in the NBA behind Houston Rockets superstar James Harden.

Wall takes more gambles than most on the defensive end of the floor, but effort has never been an issue with the Eastern Conference’s premier point guard.

Wall began this past week with 26 points and 14 assists in a 112-107 victory over the Indiana Pacers. He then posted 15 points and 14 assists in a win over Russell Westbrook and the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Wall is one of the most criminally underrated players in the NBA, but he’s putting an end to the disrespect in 2016-17.

Feb 11, 2017; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Kevin Durant (35) fights for position with Oklahoma City Thunder forward Andre Roberson (21) during the first quarter at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports

6. Kevin Durant, Golden State Warriors

Position: Small Forward
Age: 28 (9/29/1988)
Experience: 10th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .539/.374/.876
2016-17 Season Averages: 34.1 MPG, 25.8 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 4.9 APG, 1.7 BPG, 1.1 SPG, 1.9 3PM

It would be difficult to argue that any one member of the Golden State Warriors is the Most Valuable Player in the NBA. Golden State won 73 games in 2015-16, 67 games and the Larry O’Brien Trophy in 2014-15, and added 2014 MVP Kevin Durant this past offseason.

If any individual player on the Warriors deserves that distinction, however, it’s four-time scoring champion and borderline elite defender Kevin Durant.

When Durant signed with the Warriors, the rational expectation was that he would score with relative ease. He’s surrounded by three players who were named All-NBA in 2016 and thus draws less double teams than he did in Oklahoma City.

With the pressure alleviated, Durant has increased his already unfathomable efficiency to the point that he’s shooting the same percentage from the field as LeBron James.

The most significant development in Durant’s game has been on the defensive end of the floor. Building on what he started during the 2015-16 season, Durant has committed to defending multiple positions at a high level.

Stephen Curry may provide more explosive scoring performances, but Durant is the epitome of superstar-caliber consistency on both ends of the floor.

Feb 15, 2017; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Celtics guard Isaiah Thomas (4) drives to the basket against Philadelphia 76ers forward Dario Saric (9) in the second half at TD Garden. The Celtics defeated the 76ers 116-108. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

5. Isaiah Thomas, Boston Celtics

Position: Point Guard
Age: 28 (2/7/1989)
Experience: 6th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .467/.387/.912
2016-17 Season Averages: 34.5 MPG, 29.9 PPG, 6.3 APG, 2.7 RPG, 0.8 SPG, 3.2 3PM

Isaiah Thomas is the only 2017 All-Star on a Boston Celtics team that’s on pace to finish the season at 54-28. Boston has been hindered by injuries to the likes of Avery Bradley, Jae Crowder, and Al Horford, but Thomas has kept the Celtics on a strong and steady pace.

No player is better in the fourth quarter than Thomas and Boston has consistently reaped the benefits of that crucial strength.

Thomas, who’s No. 2 in the NBA in points per game and No. 13 in assists, is an offensive powerhouse. His defensive inconsistency is far from ideal, but he’s a legitimately dominant scorer—and both the volume and efficiency prove it.

That’s no more true than in the fourth quarter, during which Thomas is averaging a league-best 10.7 points on a slash line of .487/.408/.911.

Thomas has the Celtics at No. 2 in the Eastern Conference and No. 5 in the NBA in terms of win percentage. This past week, he proved just how legitimate an MVP candidate he is by dropping 29 points in a win over the 35-22 Utah Jazz.

Thomas consistently steps up against the top levels of competition and has Brad Stevens’ Celtics within just 2.5 games of the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference.

Feb 15, 2017; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) reacts to a play during the second half against the Indiana Pacers at Quicken Loans Arena. The Cavs won 113-104. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

4. LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers

Position: Small Forward
Age: 32 (12/30/1984)
Experience: 14th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .539/.389/.689
2016-17 Season Averages: 37.5 MPG, 25.9 PPG, 8.8 APG, 7.7 RPG, 1.2 ORPG, 1.4 SPG, 1.8 3PM

The Cleveland Cavaliers have lost starting power forward Kevin Love to a knee injury that will force him to miss an extended period of time. The good news is that Love’s injury coincides with the break provided by All-Star Weekend.

The less favorable news is that Love is expected to be out until March, which will create an even heavier burden for LeBron James to carry.

James has provided the Cavaliers with leadership, balanced statistics, and absurd efficiency. What may be the most impressive aspect of his season, however, is the fact that, at 32 years of age, he’s No. 2 in the NBA in minutes played per game.

Cleveland has needed every minute that he’s been on the court, as evidenced by its net ratings of +7.8 with James on the floor and -4.4 without him—a difference of 12.2 points per 100 possessions.

Beyond the numbers, James is playing with a new level of confidence and self-awareness. He’s shooting without the hesitation that long resulted in his inefficiency and is far more methodical in his attempts to take over.

James may not be the No. 1 player on this list, but he’s still the best player in the NBA. The playoffs are where he’ll prove it.

Feb 13, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) drives to the basket against Indiana Pacers forward Glenn Robinson III (40) at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. San Antonio defeats Indiana 110-106. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

3. Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio Spurs

Position: Small Forward
Age: 25 (6/29/1991)
Experience: 6th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .487/.395/.899
2016-17 Season Averages: 33.5 MPG, 25.9 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 1.2 ORPG, 3.3 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.7 BPG, 2.0 3PM

Kawhi Leonard is the only All-Star on a San Antonio Spurs team that has the second-best record in the NBA. He may not be posting gaudy statistics, but he’s the closer and go-to scorer for a championship contender.

Coupled with the fact that Leonard is a vastly superior defender to another MVP candidate who plays in Texas, it would be tough to argue against him being a valid choice.

Leonard began this past week by going off for 32 points, six rebounds, and five assists in a win over the rising Detroit Pistons. He then dropped 36 points, nine rebounds, four assists, and four steals in a loss to the New York Knicks.

Leonard helped the Spurs bounce back with 32 points and four steals in a win over Paul George and the Indiana Pacers, and had 22 points in three quarters of a dominant win over the Orlando Magic.

Leonard’s development as a scorer has become one of the most compelling storylines of the 2016-17 NBA regular season. He may not have the statistics of his counterparts, but he’s the best on-ball defender in the NBA and, now, one of the Top 10 scorers.

Between his insurmountable defense and borderline unstoppable scoring proficiency, there may not be a better two-way player in the Association than Leonard.

Feb 15, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) dribbles the ball during the third quarter against the Miami Heat at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

2. James Harden, Houston Rockets

Position: Point Guard
Age: 27 (8/26/1989)
Experience: 8th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .440/.353/.852
2016-17 Season Averages: 36.6 MPG, 29.2 PPG, 11.3 APG, 8.3 RPG, 1.4 SPG, 3.2 3PM

The Houston Rockets have one All-Star and are on pace to finish with between 56 and 57 wins. That All-Star, James Harden, should have won MVP during the 2014-15 season and is on pace to have a legitimate shot at the award again in 2016-17.

Say what you will about the limited effort that Harden puts forth on defense, but few players elevate the quality of their teammates quite like he.

Harden is on pace to become the first player to average at least 29.0 points and 11.0 assists per game since Tiny Archibald in 1972-73. More importantly, he has the Rockets on pace to make the playoffs and secure a first-round bye.

Harden has been surrounded by the perfect team to fit his offensive skill set and he’s taking advantage of every opportunity afforded to him.

This past week, Harden took no prisoners with a 40-point performance in three quarters of a 133-102 blowout of the Phoenix Suns. He then posted 38 points, 12 rebounds, and 12 assists in a 117-112 loss to the Miami Heat.

The league leader in double-doubles and the catalyst to the No. 2 scoring offense in the NBA, Harden is a force to be reckoned with.

Feb 15, 2017; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) passes the ball in front of New York Knicks center Willy Hernangomez (14) during the fourth quarter at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports

1. Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City Thunder

Position: Point Guard
Age: 28 (11/12/1988)
Experience: 9th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .422/.338/.828
2016-17 Season Averages: 34.6 MPG, 31.1 PPG, 10.5 RPG, 10.1 APG, 1.8 ORPG, 1.6 SPG, 2.2 3PM

Russell Westbrook has recorded more triple-doubles in a single season than just two players in NBA history. Those players are Oscar Robertson with 41 and Wilt Chamberlain with 31—both of whom are within reach with Westbrook currently having 27 with 25 games remaining.

For those who believe he’s stat-stuffing, note that the Oklahoma City Thunder are 21-6 when Westbrook has a triple-double and 11-19 when he doesn’t.

It may sound extreme, but Oklahoma City is a young and inexperienced team that genuinely needs Westbrook to dominate in order to win. One could argue against that being true, but they’d be ignoring what both the game film and the statistics clearly display

Thus far in 2016-17, the Thunder have net ratings of +2.7 with Westbrook on the court and -10.9 when he isn’t—a difference of 13.6 points per 100 possessions.

Despite suffering a net loss of an MVP in Kevin Durant, the Thunder are on pace to make the playoffs with a quality 46-36 record. Sam Presti didn’t have enough time to replace Durant with a quality NBA small forward, thus forcing Billy Donovan to use what was available to him.

Whether or not you believe Westbrook should be No. 1 in the race for MVP, he’s making history with the most statistically well-rounded season ever.

Oscar Robertson averaged 25.0 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 9.2 assists per 36 minutes during his triple-double season. Westbrook: 32.3 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 10.5 assists per 36 minutes.

History is being made before our very eyes.