Most Valuable Player: Russell Westbrook
Russell Westbrook was voted the league MVP for the 2016-17 season, a year in which he became the first player to average a triple-double for an entire season. He did it again last year, although his numbers were not quite as good and he did not win MVP. Can he win the award for the second time in three years? With the Thunder roster looking its best since the departure of Kevin Durant, he probably has a good chance.
Westbrook is an unparalleled force of nature in the NBA. His athleticism and toughness are unmatched by anyone in the NBA, and you would be hard-pressed to find a more competitive and physically fit player in the whole league. His ability to produce ridiculous numbers in nearly every category are what set him apart from most point guards who mostly score, steal and assist.
But in order to win the MVP award this season, Westbrook will have lead his team to new heights. In past seasons he has been remarkable but has had little help from his teammates. This year his team is looking very good, and it is arguably the biggest season of his career. If he can keep up his numbers, show good leadership and lead the Thunder to a strong finish in the West, then he just might walk away with his second Most Valuable Player Award.