The NBA’s latest MVP rankings have drawn criticism from several stars who believe Devin Booker is being snubbed.
Booker currently ranks seventh in the MVP race despite playing a crucial role in Phoenix’s success this season. He’s averaging 26.5 points, 5 rebounds, 4.9 assists and 1.2 steals this season, leading Phoenix to an NBA-best 61-14 record.
Fellow MVP candidate and Western conference rival Ja Morant questioned the recent MVP ranking after Booker was omitted from the top five.
Morant, who currently ranks sixth in the race, believes Booker’s play this season warrants him consideration as a top-three MVP candidate.
Morant wasn’t the first to speak out on the matter. Last week NBA legend Isiah Thomas argued that the top scorer on the league’s best team is always a part of the MVP criteria. Booker thanked Thomas and took a subtle shot at the subjectivity behind voting.
Portland star Damian Lillard also chimed in via his Instagram, agreeing that Booker was being overlooked.
Booker even received praise from Brooklyn guard Kyrie Irving who made it clear who his MVP was with this tweet.
Historically, five of the league’s last seven MVPs have been top scorers from the best teams. Reigning MVP and current contender Nikola Jokic was an exception last season.
One fan called out Ja Morant for not showing Nikola Jokic any love. Morant was quick to defend himself, reinforcing the fact that Booker is having a great season for the best team in the league.
Booker only has six games left if he is to make a dent in the MVP race. Despite the support of his fellow guards, it seems the big men will continue to dominate the MVP discussion this season. Given how well the Suns are playing, Booker might have a better shot at Finals MVP instead.
Battle of the Bigs
Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic are favorites to take home the MVP trophy.
Does anyone else have a chance?
