Cleveland Cavaliers: LeBron James’ current standing in the MVP race

LeBron James is producing one of the best seasons of his career, but where does he stand in the MVP race?

Once upon a time, Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James towered over the NBA, with play unparalleled by his peers. In those good old days, when his legs and spirit were young, he posted comically impressive stat lines, not unlike his averages of 28.3 points, 8.7 assists and 8.3 rebounds per game. He was mystifying. He was dominant. He was unstoppable.

Oh wait, that’s this year.

That is the production from the 32-year-old James. Coupled with a 63.2 percent shooting percentage and a career high in 3s per game at 2.0.

Let’s put that in perspective. Shaquille O’Neal, who rarely shot from outside the lane, only eclipsed 62 percent shooting once in his career. Jason Terry, who played 19 NBA seasons, only averaged at least two 3s per game six times. Terry is third all-time in 3-pointers made per game.

The four-time MVP is an early frontrunner to snag his fifth Maurice Podoloff trophy. Another number in his favor; LeBron’s win shares per 48 minutes is .278.  The only other four seasons he posted a higher total, he won MVP.

Just when you think “this is as good as LeBron James will be this season,” he one-ups himself. His latest trick? His 30 points, 13 assists and 13 rebounds against a smothering Philadelphia 76ers smothering defense.

But let’s pump the breaks. It’s only December and the coveted MVP award isn’t handed out until next summer. LeBron and competition have plenty of time left to the make their cases.

But where does James stand now? Let’s stack him against three other top candidates.