Steve Davis: Can LeBron Be MVP Even If Cavs Lose?
Can LeBron be name NBA Finals MVP, even if the Cavs lose?
The answer is yes.
It has happened before. In 1969, Jerry West was the MVP, even though the Lakers lost in the championship. (Actually, it happened in a Super Bowl too, and people probably remember it here. The Colts beat Dallas in Super Bowl V, but the Cowboys' Chuck Howley was the MVP.)
LeBron's numbers compare favorably to West's. West has averaged a little more scoring, 38 to 37 points, but LeBron is grabbing more rebounds per game, 12 to 5, more assists, 9 to 7, and playing more minutes, 46 to 44 per game.
If this was a 5 game series and was over right now with Golden State winning 3 games to 2, voters would have a tough time picking an MVP. Curry has only had one great game. LeBron has had 4 great games, even though Cleveland has only won 2. He didn't play well in Game 4, but in 5 games, he has 2 triple doubles In Game 1, he had 44 points in a losing effort.
Now, the situation might resolve itself, but right now, the writers might have to give an MVP to a player on a losing team.
