NBA: Top 5 MVP candidate predictions for 2020-21 season

3. LeBron James, Los Angles Lakers

After the MVP caliber year that he showcased this past season, LeBron James taking a step back and finishing third rather than second could seem puzzling, but it is possible. James and the Lakers will undoubtedly remain contenders in the NBA’s stacked Western Conference, but his chances to win his fifth MVP may be plummeting after this year.

Compared to this season, where James and Antetokounmpo were the two clear favorites for the award, the competition is going to be at an all-time high next season with Durant’s return, Doncic’s rapid ascension, and other stars vastly improving across the league.

In his second season with the Los Angeles Lakers, James averaged 27.5 points and 7.9 rebounds per game, his fewest since the 2015-16 NBA season. However, on the other hand, James led the league in assists at 10.6 assists per game, a new career-best for him.

First-year teammate Anthony Davis was a significant part of this success, as he is the clear-cut best second option in the league. Aside from falling just short of having the best record in the league, Davis status as arguably a top-five player in the league today faulted James’ case for MVP because of the star forward’s stature.

Still, if James can lead the Lakers to the atop the Western Conference and have another sensational year, the potential is there to win his fifth MVP award. If LeBron James has taught the NBA anything in his tenure, it is never to count him out when the odds are piled against him.