Who is the NBA M.V.P ?!

The NBA season is almost done as the playoffs wind-down, but previously this week we were introduced to our last three candidates. Those three being Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, Russell Westbrook. These three individuals all had outstanding regular seasons, and are all deserving of the illustrious award. But when we look at all the number who truly was the most valuable among the three? 

[Note: the upcoming order is what i determine to be the M.V.P ladder, number one on this list is my M.V.P]

3. Kawhi Leonard 

2016-2017 Season Stats; 

• Games Played: 74
• Points Per Game: 25.5 
• Total Rebounds: 5.8
• Assists: 3.5
• Win Shares: 13.6 (Win Shares= an estimate of the number of wins contributed by a player)
• Effective Field Goal Percentage: 54.1% 
• Usage (the number of times the teams plays were run through this player): 31.1%

When we look at all these numbers, they don't stand out. Respectively due to the fact that he has good players and a great coach to make up a decent supporting cast. This is where his argument for the Most Valuable Player, goes down. For instance, during the regular season the San Antonio Spurs went 8-1 without Kawhi playing. This positive winning record, really goes to show that Spurs will be just alright, even without their star small forward in the lineup, and respectfully so leading to a total of 67-wins during the regular season. 

2. James Harden 

2016-2017 Season Stats; 

• Games Played: 81 
• Points Per Game: 29.1 
• Total Rebounds: 8.1
• Assists: 11.2 
• Win Shares: 15.0 
• Effective Field Goal Percentage: 52.5%
• Usage: 34.2%

James Harden and the Rockets were a team, who were counted out by many before the season began. No one would have believed that the Houston Rockets would have such a glorified season. This is where we insert Harden the - Point Guard -, at the beginning of the season he was presented with a abrupt change in position, and he not only succeeded with this change, he ran away with it. Leading to a phenomenal Rockets season he was a main part of many Rocket's wins. With all accolades he has accomplished this season he has a solid case, on why he is the M.V.P and could very well be the winner. 

1. Russell Westbrook 

2016-2017 Season Stats; 

• Games Played: 81 
• Points Per Game: 31.6 
• Total Rebounds: 10.7
• Assists: 10.4
• Win Shares: 13.1 
• Effective Field Goal Percentage: 47.6% 
• Usage: 41.7%

The Oklahoma City Thunder were expected a major drop in the wins total, rightfully so after the departure of Kevin Durant. But, Westbrook made sure they didn't lose out on to many wins. He went on to average a triple-double for the whole season which had not happened since Oscar Robertson in the 61'-62' NBA season, and deservedly so, also earned the name of Mr. Triple Double. So why is he the M.V.P ? well it's right their in the usage percentile, one of the highest in NBA history at 41.2%. That number clearly shows us that without Westbrook the offense of the Thunder is almost non-existent, which was also seen bluntly in multiple games during the post-season. A historic season, and being the complete workhorse of the team which lead to a playoff appearance, after the departure of a - Top-3 player in the world, makes for a heck of case of the illustrious trophy.