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Published 17:11 IST, July 22nd 2020

Magic Johnson leaves fans divided after ditching Giannis for LeBron in race for MVP award

Lakers legend Magic Johnson's pick for the NBA MVP has left the fans divided on social media. Johnson picked Lakers' LeBron James as the favourite.

Reported by: Sujay Chakraborty
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The NBA recently confirmed that the race for the MVP award for this season ended on March 11 when the season was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While the final phase of the regular season will be played in Orlando, starting July 30, the same won't be factored in while declaring the MVP. Per multiple reports, the MVP award for the 2019-20 season is a two-horse race between Los Angeles Lakers' LeBron James and Milwaukee Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo. 

Also Read | Wes Unseld, NBA MVP And Rookie Of YearIn 1969, Dies At 74

LeBron vs Giannis: Magic Johnson has his NBA MVP pick

For most experts, reigning MVP Giannis is the favourite to scoop the award for the second year running. However, according to NBA legend Magic Johnson, "LeBron James is definitely the MVP this season." The 60-year-old shared his opinion on Twitter where he pointed out the fact that LeBron is averaging almost a triple-double this season with 25 points, 10 assists and eight rebounds. The Lakers icon believes there has been no better leader in the game than LeBron James, which makes him the leading contender for the individual honour.

Magic Johnson's bold MVP claim left fans divided on social media. While one section of the fans seemed to agree with Johnson, the other section feels LeBron is nowhere close to Giannis in the race for the MVP. 

Also Read | Damian Lillard Goes With LeBron James As NBA MVP Over Bucks Star Giannis

Fans supporting Giannis Antetokounmpo for MVP

LeBron James deserves to be crowned MVP, say some fans

Also Read | Lakers Legend Magic Johnson's New Feature-film Documentary In The Works

When it comes to numbers, Giannis Antetokounmpo seems to be ahead in the race for the award. The Greek Freak is averaging 29.6 points, 13.7 rebounds and 5.8 assists this season. The Milwaukee Bucks were also the best side in the NBA with a 53-12 record, beating LeBron's Lakers, who were 49-14 at the time of the suspension. For many fans, Giannis is also the favourite to win the Defensive Player of the Year award. 

The 22-team NBA season will resume on July 30 at the Disney World Resort in Orlando. The Lakers will face city rivals Clippers on Day 1. The Bucks will be in action on July 31, facing Boston Celtics at HP Field House. 

Also Read | LeBron vs Giannis: LeBron Has The Edge Over Giannis In NBA MVP Race, Says Kendrick Perkins

(Image Credits: AP)

17:11 IST, July 22nd 2020