NBA 2017-18: 10 Early Regular Season MVP Candidates

#1 James Harden, Houston Rockets

Harden had a remarkable MVP worthy season last year guiding the Houston Rockets to the Western Conference Semis where they lost to the Spurs. The offensive superstar did this on his own with a questionable roster and managed to make it work with 50+ plus wins by the end of the regular season.

James Harden has a case to convince the MVP voters why he deserves the award, he’s come so close twice. This adds fire to his desire for getting rewarded for his performances. He also has a chance to forge the best backcourt partnership with a newly acquired point guard, Chris Paul.

With Chris Paul taking the pressure off him, Harden has to show he can excel working with Paul if the Rockets are to truly contend. I expect him to pick up from where he left off and perform at the highest level. This is the year that he claims the award without much debate given the intangibles that he brings to the game.