NBA news: Kawhi Leonard and Giannis Antetokounmpo SNUB made by analyst for MVP pick
KAWHI LEONARD and Giannis Antetokounmpo have been snubbed by NBA analyst Charles Barkley for his MVP pick so far.
Despite being unable to play back-to-back games for the Toronto Raptors, Leonard has been sensational on the floor.
His shooting has been excellent, averaging over 26 points per game and the Raptors have a 24-9 record which puts them top in the Eastern Conference.
Antetokounmpo - who is under contract with the Milwaukee Bucks until 2021 - has lit up the NBA this season too.
But Barkley reckons Nikola Jokic should be ahead in the MVP race.
If you look back at the last 50 years, it goes to who had the best regular season
“Jokic should be frontrunner for MVP,” Barkley said on TNT when asked for his pick.
“Why is he not in the conversation for MVP?
“I hate that fake argument with the MVP going to the best player.
“If you look back at the last 50 years, it goes to who had the best regular season.”
When asked why Leonard should not be reckoning, he added: “Because he’s had all his players.
“He’s missed a bunch of games because he’s been resting.
“Jokic has played every game and his side are missing three starters.”
Antetokounmpo, meanwhile, is adamant the Bucks don’t need to sign any players.
NBA: Kawhi is the 'perfect match' for LeBron says Cris Carter
He said: “You don't have to have a lot of (stars).
"I definitely think that, because I think we have great pieces in this team.
“Every guy in this team knows what his role is and is having fun and is enjoying his role.”