NBA News Roundup, Saturday, May 18th: Jimmy Butler could join the Nets, Most Valuable Player Finalists announced, and more

Harden and Antetokounmpo among MVP Finalists

Giannis Antetokounmpo is on the three-man shortlist

The three-man shortlist for the 2019 Most Valuable Player award has been released, with James Harden, Paul George, and Giannis Antetokounmpo making the cut.

Harden is the reigning MVP, and he led the league in scoring with 36.1 points per game. The Rockets guard shot 36.8 percent from long range, and also averaged 7.5 assists, 6.6 rebounds, and 2.0 steals per game.

Meanwhile, Antetokounmpo led the Bucks to a league-best 60-22 record, averaging 27.7 points, 12.5 rebounds, 5.9 assists, 1.5 blocks, and 1.3 steals per game. The 24-year-old is also the only finalist that is still participating in the postseason.

Finally, Paul George starred for the Thunder, averaging career highs in points (28.0), rebounds (8.2) and assists (4.1). He also led the league in steals (2.2), although his chances of winning are likely to be hit by a shoulder injury that hindered him after the All-Star break.