Golden State Warriors: Midseason Yearly Awards

MVP Award: Stephen Curry

Jan 21, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) reacts after a basket against the Houston Rockets during the second quarter at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

Stephen Curry has been in many talks of possibly winning the MVP race this season over the Houston Rockets’ main man, James Harden. Curry’s case for MVP has been glorified by his impeccable ability to shoot the ball and kick out a pass to the open player when the defense is solely focused on him. Curry also does the small things, such as getting steals, grabbing offensive rebounds by following his shot and running the fast break.

Curry’s numbers have also been slightly better from last season, as he is averaging about 23 points, eight assists, five rebounds and two steals a game. In the 2013-2014 season, Curry averaged about 24 points, eight assists, four rebounds and one steal. In January alone, Curry has averaged 23 points, 9.5 assists, four rebounds and two steals a game.

The biggest difference between Curry and Harden is their defensive skill set. Although Curry’s defensive game is not the best in the league, it is far better than Harden’s defensive game. Opponents, when guarded by Harden, shoot about 54 percent from the field, which is eight percent higher than when Curry is guarding his opponent.

Not only has Curry been better than Harden all around, Curry also beat Harden in the All-Star voting as well. This year Curry had the most All-Star votes of any player and earned himself his second straight All-Star appearance and start. Harden made the All-Star team last year, but was chosen by the coaches and not voted in like Curry.

It will be a tight MVP race between Curry and Harden with LeBron James, Jeff Teague, Damian Lillard and Marc Gasol lurking below them on the MVP ladder.

Next: Most Improved Player