FanNation

I'd have to say that this year's NBA MVP race has been one of the tightest, most exciting races in history. At least, as far as I can remember.

So here I am. I'm gonna break down the race for you, and maybe actually pick a winner for the prestigious award.

The Candidates: Chris Paul-Hornets, LeBron James-Cavaliers, Kobe Bryant-Lakers, Tracy McGrady-Rockets, Kevin Garnett-Celtics

First up: Chris Paul.

The Rundown: CP3 has had a truly incredible season for the Hornets, statwise and team-wise. First, he has just dominated, socring 22 points per game and averaging nearly 12 assists, but that isn't all. He's also led the Hornets, who won only 39 games last season and just missed the playoffs, to first place in the competitive West.

My Analysis: I think Paul has to win it if the Hornets win the West. Although if they don't, I think it's gotta be Kobe Bryant.

Next: Kobe Bryant.

The Rundown: Kobe has had one of his best seasons, scoring an astounding 29 points per game, along with 5 assists and 6 rebounds.But that doesn't even explain everything. He's completely turned around a Lakers team that everyone thought wouldn't do anything at the start of the season. Also, he's never been an MVP.

My Analysis: Like I said before, if the Hornets win the West, Paul gets it. But if the Lakers win it OR finish ahead of the Hornets, then Kobe wins it.

For our next, uh, victim, we have: LeBron James.

The Rundown: King James has already been known as one of the NBA's best offensive players, but he's taken it to a whole new level this season. He leads the NBA in scoring, along with 7 assists and 7 rebounds a game.

My Analysis: The only reason I think LeBron has a small chance is because of his team. He is extremely valuable, but his team has underachieved this season, even in the pathetic East. He's got virtuallly no shot.

Now, give it up for: Kevin Garnett!

The Rundown: Garnett has completely revived Boston Celtics basketball. But, Paul Pierce deserves some credit as well. He's having an excellent season, scoring 19 points and grabbing nearly 10 boards a game.

My Analysis: Garnett has been a key part of the Celts' success, but since he was injured he's fallen out of big time MVP talks. Why? The Celtics still kept on winning.

And for our final contestant, please give a round of applause for: Tracy McGrady!

The Rundown: McGrady was playing well even before Yao Ming was out for the season. Now, he's led the Rockets to 22 straight wins and a playoff berth in the competitive Western Conference. 22 points per game, to go along with 5 rebounds and 6 assists? Nice.

My Analysis: I'm surprised McGrady has been brought up in too many MVP talks. He's having a great season, but other guys have just been better.

And now, drumroll please...

My pick: Kobe Bryant, Lakers!

Bryant has had a phenomenal season, and the Lakers have had great success. I think he beats out Chris Paul by the smallest of margins.