NBA: Every Team's Leading MVP Candidate

NBA: Every Team’s Leading MVP Candidate

May 5, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) hoists the 2014-2015 KIA NBA MVP trophy before game two of the second round of the NBA Playoffs against the Memphis Grizzlies at Oracle Arena. The Grizzlies defeated the Warriors 97-90. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

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Oct 9, 2015; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Al Horford (right) warms up before the game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Veterans Memorial Arena. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports /

Atlanta Hawks: Al Horford

The Atlanta Hawks sent four players to the All-Star Game in 2014-15. Those players were Al Horford, Kyle Korver, Paul Millsap and Jeff Teague.

If any one of those players should be expected to emerge as an MVP candidate in 2015-16, it’s Horford.

Horford is a three-time All-Star with an All-NBA Third Team appearance under his belt. His statistics won’t inspire box score bandits to sing his praises, but he’s far better than the numbers show.

In virtually every phase of the game, Horford is the catalyst for Mike Budenholzer and the Hawks.

Considering Atlanta won 60 games a season ago, it’s safe to say that Horford is on the radar as a reasonably viable candidate. He won’t win without a significant statistical increase, but his value is known and understood.

Horford is a dynamic offensive player, versatile defender and a respected leader. He’s also a two-time NCAA champion who’s helped Atlanta reach the playoffs in all eight of his NBA seasons.

For what it’s worth, the Hawks’ only two seasons below .500 since drafting Horford were 2007-08, his rookie year, and 2013-14, when he missed 53 games.

Next: Boston Celtics