LeBron James Discusses Stephen Curry Winning NBA MVP, Meaning of Award
After Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry became the first player in NBA history to be unanimously named league MVP on Tuesday, Cleveland Cavaliers star LeBron James made sure to let everyone know it was the correct choice.
Speaking to Jason Lloyd of the Akron Beacon Journal, James said Curry "averaged 30, he led the league in steals, he was 90-50-40 and they won 73 (games). Do you have any debate over that, really, when it comes to that award?"
In that same sentiment, though, James did say a specific word associated with the award leaves a lot open to interpretation: “But when you talk about most ‘valuable,’ then you can have a different conversation, so, take nothing away from him; he’s definitely deserving of that award, for sure.”
James clarified that if you look back at past MVP winners compared to who was considered the NBA's best player, there will sometimes be a difference.
The term "most valuable player" has been open for debate in all sports. Three common interpretations are the award should go to the best player on the championship-winning team, the best player who carries his team to the best record or simply to the best player in the league.
Until the NBA provides a concrete definition of what the MVP award should entail, it will remain open for interpretation. Voters will have their own personal biases and arguments about it, which is why it's taken 61 years for the league to have a unanimous MVP selection.
