NBA MVP Race 2019-20: December Power Rankings

#2 James Harden

Harden has been a scoring machine this year

James Harden has stacked up a mountain of 1,124 points this season, which is the most by a player in 29 games since Ricky Barry's 1,134 back in the 1966-67 season. His most recent 47-point performance against the Phoenix Suns was his 89th 40-point game - fourth-most in NBA history.

His historic scoring tear has seen an inhuman average of 38.8 points per game (league's best), on 45% shooting from the floor this year. The Beard is making free throws at an imposing 88% conversion rate, along with 5.8 boards, 7.5 dimes and 1.9 steals per matchup.

Coupled with an explosive Russell Westbrook, Harden's scoring has resulted in three straight wins for his team, as they climb the West standings to a third spot.

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#1 Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis is leading a revolution down in Milwaukee

Giannis Antetokounmpo has surged to become a worthy successor for when LeBron exits the NBA limelight. He carries the work ethic and elite talent needed to be the face of the NBA for the coming decade.

The reigning MVP is averaging career-high numbers in 31.4 points and 12.7 rebounds, on 57% shooting from the floor. Against the Lakers, Giannis also dropped a career-high five three-pointers and made sure the league knew who the best player is.

Riding on Antetokounmpo's sheer greatness, the Bucks have only lost one of their last 22 games. His intensity on both ends of the court is infectious. He tops the NBA MVP Power Rankings for this month while his team boasts of a league-leading 27-4 (0.871) on the heels of his inspirational leadership.