5. Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers
Coming off of a championship season and surrounding with a lot of talent, Kobe Bryant won’t have to put in enough work to win this regular season award.

4. Chris Paul, New Orleans Hornets
Chris Paul has established himself as one of the best players in the league. If the Hornets can get a first or second seed in the West, Paul has a chance at the MVP.

3. Dwight Howard, Orlando Magic
Already considered by many as the best bigman in the world, Dwight Howard may be able to get considerably better. If that’s the case, watch out.

2. Dwyane Wade, Miami Heat
Last season, Dwyane Wade bounced back from years of injuries and re-established himself as a great NBA player. If he can stay healthy again, Wade will be a top MVP candidate.

1. LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers
Everything seems to point to LeBron James winning the MVP award for the second straight season. His pending free agency will keep all eyes on him and LeBron still has to prove that he can win when it matters. Expect greatness again in the 2009-10 season.

Will LeBron James get revenge in the 2009-10 NBA season? (Image: Zuma Press)

Post from: EveryJoe

2010 NBA MVP Favorites – Early Look

LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers – ODDS: 2-to-1
Everything seems to be falling into place this season for LeBron James. He’s playing great basketball, his team is winning and every time you turn on ESPN they are talking about him signing with the New York Knicks. Those three aspects combined should give him enough attention to win the 2008 NBA MVP award.

Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers – ODDS: 3-to-1
Last year’s Most Valuable Player has the Lakers winning at a scary clip. While his stats are down, MVP voters aren’t exactly the sharpest tools in the shed. Bryant has a chance due to his name recognition and the fact that the Lakers could end up with a ridiculous amount of wins.

Chris Paul, New Orleans Hornets – ODDS: 10-to-1
Chris Paul is once again having a great season. He’s the heart, soul and the will of the Hornets. His stats indicate how fantastic he is and if the Hornets can have another quality season, Paul should be in the discussion. But he needs the above two players to slow down so he can catch up.

Dwight Howard, Orlando Magic – ODDS: 25-to-1
One day, Dwight Howard will win the NBA MVP award. However, it doesn’t look like it’ll be this year. He has the stats to have a case but he needs a tad bit more name recognition and he has to lead the Magic to a good showing in the playoffs. Look for Howard to be a serious candidate over the next few years.

Photo credit: Newscom

Post from: EveryJoe

2008 NBA MVP Odds and Favorites