NBA: 5 dark horse MVP candidates in 2017-18

5. Paul George, Oklahoma City Thunder

First up on the list is Paul George, who was traded by the Indiana Pacers this offseason to the Thunder. He was one of the hottest names in the rumor mill after informing the Pacers that he did not intend to re-sign with the team following the 2017-18 season.

Last season in Indiana, George averaged 23.7 points per game, while chipping in 6.6 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game. He shot 46.1 percent on the season and knocked down 39.3 percent of his 3-pointers. George’s offensive game was taken to the next level, but there is still room for improvement.

Defensively, George is still one of the elite perimeter defenders in the league. He has been vocal about his desire to be the best and is aiming for the MVP award this season. Accomplishing that alongside reigning MVP Russell Westbrook won’t be easy, but George isn’t expecting anything easy.

Putting him on this list is a must, as his potential is through the roof. He is already an NBA superstar, but has not yet reached his full talent. If he is able to take that leap this season, an MVP award could be a possibility.