LeBron James has insisted that Kevin Durant's form this season deserves to be rewarded with the MVP award.
Despite being in contention for his fifth award, James believes that his rival from Oklahoma City Thunder has produced the kind of displays which should be recognised by receiving the honour.
"Much respect to him and he deserves it," James told reporters when asked about Durant, who is the favourite to be named MVP later this week.
"He had a big-time MVP season."
Durant has averaged 32 points per game for the Thunder this season.
