Kobe Bryant won his first most-valuable-player award last season, but will LeBron James prevent a repeat performance?
The Cleveland Cavaliers forward has the better statistics and a comparable team record at this point. He also has an important vote — sort of.
Bryant seemed mildly uncomfortable when asked for his MVP choice near the season's halfway point.
"LeBron," he said. "Leave me alone about that stuff."
He then expanded upon his thoughts.
"I'm a big fan of his, obviously," he said. "I just think the world of him. Playing with him this summer [at the Beijing Olympics], and seeing his work ethic and what he's about, I just think he's terrific."
Source: Los Angeles Times