3. Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat
There are conflicting reports on whether or not Philadelphia wanted Jimmy Butler back. But now he’s in Miami, where he maintains his status as a top-20 talent and one of the league’s best wings. Butler should lift the Heat to a new competitive height next season.
In 55 games with Philadelphia, Butler averaged 18.8 points, 5.3 boards and 4.0 assists. Not special, but it’s clear Butler was figuring out a new role and preserving himself for the postseason. Butler was the Sixers’ most consistent offensive threat once the games really counted.
- PG: Goran Dragic | Position Rank: 19th
- SG: Jimmy Butler | Position Rank: 3rd
2. Paul George, Los Angeles Clippers
The Clippers did it. Paul George will join Kawhi Leonard, forming one of the NBA’s top duos. George finished third in MVP voting last season, battling through shoulder issues to keep OKC in firm playoff contention. He’s the epitome of 3-and-D wings.
George is a legitimate Defensive Player of the Year candidate. He’s also a dynamic 3-point shooter who, over the past couple seasons, has added to his scoring repertoire to a considerable degree. He averaged 28.0 points, 8.2 rebounds and 4.1 assists per game in 2018-19.
- PG: Patrick Beverley | Position Rank: 15th
- SG: Paul George | Position Rank: 2nd
1. James Harden, Houston Rockets
A walking top-five offense. James Harden single-handedly elevates Houston to elite heights, producing at a historic rate and operating as the Rockets’ operations hub. His role will change upon Russell Westbrook‘s arrival, but in the end, expect Harden to get his. He’s the clear choice here.
My personal pick for 2018-19 MVP, Harden averaged 36.1 points, 6.6 rebounds and 7.5 assists last season. On prolific volume, he managed to shoot 44.2 percent while taking the league’s greatest volume of high-difficulty shots. He’s a brawny, shifty ball handler, a dynamic finisher, and a killer shooter. It will take a lot to move Harden off the top spot.
- PG: Russell Westbrook | Position Rank: 4th
- SG: James Harden | Position Rank: 1st
You can read last summer’s version of this post here.