2018-19 NBA MVP Ladder 1.0: Joel Embiid representing the Philadelphia 76ers early on
2. Kawhi Leonard, Toronto Raptors
The Raptors might be the best team in the Eastern Conference and Kawhi Leonard is the reason why. He’s elevating them on both ends, returning to form offensively and playing the elite defense he was known for in San Antonio.
Averaging 27.3 points, 7.8 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game, Leonard has already put together some impressive 30-point outings. He’s also averaging 2.0 steals per game, which doesn’t do justice to how disruptive he is on the defensive end. Just look at the Raptors’ win over Philadelphia.
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After some early-season struggles, Leonard has regained his three-point efficiency, shooting 44.4 percent from deep through six games. He’s also dynamic inside the arc, using elite change-of-pace ability to juke defenders, create space and finish around the paint. Leonard can make high-level passes as well.
What sets Leonard apart, of course, is his defense. Rarely do we see perimeter defenders win Defensive Player of the Year awards, but Leonard might add a third to his resume this season. Toronto is a top-five defense, and Leonard is the crux of that success.
If the Raptors cruise to another No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference, expect Leonard to be firmly in the MVP discussion when the time comes.