LeBron James and Steve Nash want the NBA to rethink how it awards players. On the Mind the Game podcast, they discussed a fresh proposal that suggests the NBA borrow a page from the NFL by creating an Official offensive player of the year award alongside the MVP and Defensive player of the year honors.
The proposal adds fresh context to ongoing criticism of the NBA’s ring culture, where team success often overshadows individual brilliance. James said the NFL’s structure could bring clarity to NBA accolades. “I did think about how the NFL does Offensive Player of the Year and MVP. I thought that could be something in our league“, he told Nash. He added that while the Defensive Player of the Year award exists, there is no equivalent recognition for offensive excellence.
Nash agreed with James’ point and highlighted the MVP award’s ambiguity. He argued that separating the award system for offense and defense could bring transparency and fairness.
As the MVP debate intensifies, especially after Shai Gilgeous-Alexander edged out Nikola Jokic for the 2025 award, James and Nash’s suggestion may gain the attention of fans and league insiders alike. Whether the league will listen remains to be seen, but both the legends believe change could be significant.
LeBron James’ Historic Comeback After 2014-15 Final Departure
James posted historic numbers in the 2015 NBA finals, with an average of 35.8 points, 13.3 rebounds, and 8.8 assists. However, the Cleveland Cavaliers lost to the Golden State Warriors in six games. Playing without injured stars Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love, James carried a heavy load and reportedly dealt with back issues. Former teammate Iman Shumpert recently said he believes James had a back operation that summer.
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Despite that, James returned strong the following season. He led the Cavaliers to an incredible comeback. In the 2016 Finals, he won Finals MVP and delivered his team its first NBA championship.
He made his comeback strong, which is something very inspiring and always to be remembered.
Also Read: LeBron James Praises Unsung Pacers Hero As Key Reason NBA Finals Reaches Game 7
