James Harden is averaging 36.6 points, 6.7 rebounds and 7.7 assists per game. That’s insane. The remainder of Houston’s roster, however, continues to underperform relative to expectations. A lack of depth and Harden’s potential exhaustion could catch up to them.
The Jazz are once again relevant behind a stellar defense. Rudy Gobert might win back-to-back Defensive Player of the Year awards and Donovan Mitchell, after a slow start to the season, is finally rounding into form.
The Blazers are perpetually competitive, adding pieces around the margins and riding Damian Lillard‘s productivity to a top-four spot in the loaded Western Conference. Even if you have questions about the core’s long-term future, it’s easy to appreciate the chemistry right now.
The Nuggets took some lumps before the All-Star break, but they’re still moderate contenders in the West. Golden State will inevitably take the crown, but Nikola Jokic is the league’s most unique MVP candidate. As the roster gets healthier, stability will come again.
Paul George has a legitimate MVP argument, rivaling Harden and Giannis Antetokounmpo for the top spot. He’s also in the Defensive Player of the Year conversation, locked in a heated battle with Gobert. OKC, sparked by an elite defensive unit, might be the Warriors’ most imposing threat in the West.