The Most Valuable Player award is debated back-and-forth almost every year – in sports shows, barber shops, classrooms, offices, you name it – and this season’s no different. Giannis Antetkounmpo, James Harden, and Luka Doncic all present a good case for garnering the prestige.

If you ask New Orleans head coach Alvin Gentry, however, there’s no argument needed. He believes that the hardwood belongs to one man and one man only: LeBron James.

Here’s what Gentry shared to the media on Monday following his Pelicans’ 122-114 loss to James and the Los Angeles Lakers:

“I’m just amazed that they talk about anybody other than [LeBron James] for MVP. That’s what he does. Every team that he’s been to, every team that he’s gone have a chance to win the championship… I’m not sure what the definition of MVP is but he makes everybody on his team better and it makes it difficult for everybody playing.”

Alvin Gentry, New Orleans Pelicans Head Coach

For the second time in a week, the Pelicans felt James’s wrath heavily, and that might’ve triggered his opinion further. The four-time MVP punctured the Pels’ defense for a triple double of 34 points, 12 rebounds, and 13 assists on an efficient 66.7% shooting. In the first match-up this past Thursday, The King dropped a season-high 40 points.

Of course, in terms of unselfishness on the court, Gentry isn’t saying anything we don’t already know. From ‘Bron’s first seven years with the Cleveland Cavaliers (2003-2010), to his four seasons with the Miami Heat (2010-2014), to his second stint with the Cavs (2014-2018), and up to the present with the Lakers, it’s been evident that James is a natural born facilitator. He didn’t reach the finals from 2011 to 2018 solely because he can be a freight train when going to the rim.

The ability to distribute the ball is at an even higher level this season as he is well on his way to leading the league in assists (10.8 APG). Then, there’s also his undying knack for triple-doubles. He now has 13, tied with Doncic for most in the league.

James is averaging 25.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, 10.8 assists, and 1.2 steals per game on 49.6% shooting on the season. Further, he’s also shooting 52.6% in games where the game is within five points or less.

That’s not too bad for a 35-year-old with untold mileage on his legs.