Define MVP?

The NBA MVP is....Kobe Bryant.

These words are what Kobe has been waiting to here since he began his tenure in the NBA. He is a valuable $19 Million prize for the team with the best record in the Western Conference.

He has started and played in every game this year. He has averaged 28.3 points a game this year, six rebounds, 5.4 assists, and only three turnovers a game.

Maybe that recent number change has something to do with that? He wanted to be traded before this year, if you remember? Those thoughts are long gone. He plays in a city with more than 15 championships in all sports.

On the flip side, there is the runner-up, Chris Paul. the 6 foot $3 Million player that not much of the country had heard of before this year. He plays in the beloved town of New Orleans, where only a year ago, did a the Saints advance to the conference championship.

He has picked up his team on his back, and led them. Just three years out of college, this point guard averages 21 points, 11.6 assists, 2.1 steals, 4.8 rebounds, and just 2.7 turnovers a game.

So who is better? That question has been asked since the All-Star game. Well, is that really the question the MVP award answers?

The Most VALUABLE Player award. Who is more valuable then? The man who is worth $19 Million, and averages 28.3 points a game. Or could it be the $3 Million leader, who's team won its first playoff series ever?

Take away Kobe from the Lakers and what do you lose? You lose the leading scorer, the leader, the shooter, and the main target for defenses. Take away Chris Paul from the Hornets, and what would they miss? They would miss a point guard, "the coach on the court." They would miss a guy who makes passes like Pistol Pete. You would miss a guy who does the impossible. 

The Lakers would still be able to function without Kobe, but the Hornets would be lost. So tell me, is the MVP award for the best player, Kobe. Or is it for the player that is most valuable for their team?