"People may hate me... Steph would have to have crazy numbers and lose" - Chris Haynes and Dan Patrick offer their takes on highly-contentious Finals MVP debate

As the NBA Finals enters its final phase, Chris Haynes and Dan Patrick have offered their take on Steph Curry's candidacy for Finals MVP.

Curry has been splendid over the course of the Finals for the Golden State Warriors. Unfortunately, the superstar had a poor outing in Game 5.

With the Warriors leading 3-2, it seems likely that Curry will win the Finals MVP if Golden State wins the championship. Haynes, of Yahoo Sports, offered an intriguing view on the debate.

Speaking to Dan Patrick of the Dan Patrick Show, Haynes was asked who his pick for MVP was. When Haynes mentioned Curry, he added:

"People may hate me. I'm not giving my MVP award to a losing team. Steph would have to have crazy numbers and lose for me to even consider him. But as of right now, with Golden State being up, he will be my Finals MVP."

"But Andrew Wiggins is not too far behind. There's still a lot of game left to be played for anybody to have that award."

Chris Haynes brought up an interesting point when mentioning the MVP award going to a player in the losing team. Dan Patrick chimed in at this point.

Recalling Reggie Miller's claim that Curry should win MVP even if the Warriors lose, Patrick referred to how LeBron James failed to win the award in 2015 despite sterling performances.

Referring to this past outcome, Patrick said:

"Unless the voters go, "we made a mistake back then, we're not going to make a mistake this time around." Steph was wonderful in Game 4. He was not good last night. I have a hard time giving him the MVP in a losing effort."

Andrew Wiggins is also a good candidate for the award based on his performances in the series. But given the Warriors lead 3-2 as they head into Game 6, Steph Curry remains the favorite.

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Chris Haynes joins several others in picking Steph Curry as Finals MVP

Steph Curry in action during the NBA Finals

While it seems unlikely that Golden State will come up short at this juncture, the question of Curry being named MVP even if they lose is an intriguing one. Haynes is part of a long list of individuals who personally believe Curry deserves the award.

Steph Curry has been a dominant force throughout the playoffs. Although he had an ordinary Game 5, the Warriors talisman found ways to contribute even when shooting poorly.

Curry's ability to draw the attention of defenders is exemplary. Game 5 was a masterclass in this aspect as he created space for his teammates by just luring defenders away.

Although the 34-year old had a horror shooting night, he didn't necessarily have a bad game. Scoring 16 points while dishing out eight assists, Curry played a vital role in Golden State's success.

Considering that Curry shot poorly from three-point range in Game 5, Game 6 could turn out to be a potential masterclass from the superstar who will have a point to prove. With it potentially being a closeout game, the Warriors will hope Steph Curry brings his A-game to the court.