NBA Player Power Rankings: Who's The MVP At The Midway Point?

NBA Player Power Rankings: The MVP At The 2016-17 Midway Point

Jan 5, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) hugs Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) after the Rockets defeated the City Thunder at Toyota Center. Houston Rockets won 118 to 116. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports /

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As the 30 teams complete the first half of the 2016-17 NBA regular season, who has emerged as the frontrunner for the MVP award?

The 2016-17 NBA regular season has gained traction and the 2017 NBA Playoffs are on the horizon. Six different teams have already completed the first half of their respective schedules and most others are within a game or two of that same mark.

With the NBA regular season essentially at its midway point, it’s only fair to evaluate what’s transpired and determine whether or not it’s a sign of things to come.

In many instances, players are halfway to achieving historic seasons that will live on in NBA lore for years to come. In others, they’re halfway to having a career year that will rewrite their respective reputations for the better.

A number of players who were erratic early in 2016-17 are beginning to return to form, as well, thus reclaiming their place amongst the league’s elite.

Scattered throughout the Top 20 of the Player Power Rankings are players who are pursuing both individual accolades and team-wide glory. Some have been better than others, but all rank amongst the best in the Association.

The question is: halfway through the 2016-17 NBA regular season, who has the narrow lead in the race for MVP?