More than three weeks into the new year, the NBA regular season has made headlines, specifically, the play by Houston Rockets superstar shooting guard James Harden and Oklahoma City superstar point guard Russell Westbrook. These two individuals have put on a statistical show, while leading their teams to the third and sixth spots in the Western Conference, respectively. Westbrook and Harden are the leaders in triple-doubles: They are averaging 30-plus points, 10 assists, and 10 rebounds. These numbers from both players are worthy of the NBA’s Most Valuable Player award. However, only one player can win it.

When Kevin Durant left for the Golden State Warriors as free agent, it became very clear that Westbrook would become the face of his franchise; the emotional leader of this organization. Every night, it seems as though Westbrook is carrying his teamto victory. In fact, a couple of nights ago in Utah, Russell Westbrook not only recorded another triple-double, he hit the game winning shot with very little time remaining. There is no reason why he shouldn’t win the MVP award.

Then again, the case could be made for James Harden. He too is re-writing the NBA history books, or in this case, the stats sheet. He averages 30 points a game, and contributes double-digit figures in the rebounds and assists departments. He has benefited from having a new head coach and teammates who are committed to playing alongside him. Harden has become a leader in his own right.

Lebron James, arguably the best player in the NBA, would be in this MVP conversation also, but lately, things have not been pleasant for him or his team: Cleveland has lost six of their last ten games, and LeBron has been making headlines for the wrong reasons: He and the Cavaliers owner, Dan Gilbert, have been arguing with each other about the team spending payroll to help give James and his teammates more help in an effort to repeat as NBA champions. The Cavs, fortunately, still lead the Eastern Conference over the Toronto Raptors(another struggling team of late) by 3 games. But LeBron is looking way ahead to a potential NBA Finals re-rematch with Golden State ora rematch with the San Antonio Spurs, who beat Cleveland in the Finals in 2007.

In conclusion, the 2016-17 NBA MVP battle between Russell Westbrook and James Harden is intense. Both players are doing everything they can to help their respective teams succeed. However, only one player can win the award. If it were up to me to decide, I’d go with Russell Westbrook. Without him, Oklahoma City would not be in a position to compete for a playoff spot in the Western Conference. He gets the team motivated and inspired to go out and play to win every night. Also, he’s performing at a higher level than when he had Kevin Durant as his teammate. A huge chip no longer on his shoulder.