Devin Booker Takes Aim at LeBron James, Joel Embiid and Fellow MVP Candidates With Controversial NBA Take

Devin Booker has always been Phoenix’s chosen one since he arrived at the franchise in 2015. After a massive stretch of playoff absences, Booker would play a key role alongside Chris Paul to get the team, not just into the playoffs, but to the NBA Finals. At just 25 years of age, Booker seems to be having the time of his life. Powered by his extraordinary scoring ability, the Suns have earned the best record in the NBA this season.

With the aim of becoming legendary like his idol Kobe Bryant, Booker continues to perform at a high level. Even in the absence of Chris Paul, he has remained the Suns’ pillar of strength. So, it makes sense to consider him among the top players to receive the MVP award. After all, he is the centerpiece of the best team in the league.

At least, that’s what NBA legend Isiah Thomas says. However, Booker made a statement regarding the NBA’s criteria to determine the MVP.

Devin Booker on the MVP Criteria

In response to Isiah Thomas praising the Suns’ star, saying that being the leading scorer of the best team in the league is part of the MVP criteria, Booker had something different to say. Although he appreciated the legend’s praise, he believes that the criteria changes from player to player.

“Appreciate that IT. But the ‘criteria’ changes depending on the players name,” said Booker.

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Clearly, Booker hopes to be named among the NBA’s elite. However, he feels that the criteria to determine the NBA’s MVP changes from player to player. Additionally, his statements appear to be a subtle aim at fellow MVP candidates such as LeBron James and Joel Embiid. Moreover, the ‘Kia MVP Ladder‘ reveals higher rankings for Joel Embiid and other stars such as Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Ja Morant, despite Booker being the leading scorer of the best team in the league.

Booker in the Absence of Chris Paul

Chris Paul’s arrival to Phoenix was a major boost for the franchise. As a veteran leader who can play at a high level, lead the team, and is also looking for his first ring, Paul formed an explosive backcourt partnership with Booker. He was not just a scorer for the team, but also a playmaker and a good defender. However, one would expect the Suns to fall. However, that has not been the case.

Behind Booker’s performances, the franchise still keeps its hold at the top of the NBA. In fact, they are on a 5 game winning streak with an 8-2 record over the last 10 games. Moreover, they have even clinched first place in the Pacific Division.

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So there clearly is a major impact from Booker. As the season winds down and playoffs close in, the Suns will hope for Booker to continue his hot form and Paul to return. It looks Booker and the Suns are going after the title once again.