One of the NBA’s most prolific scorers, James Harden, talked following the Brooklyn Nets 113-111 win vs. the Detroit Pistons. Harden once again had big numbers in the game, and after the game said quite openly, “I am the MVP.”

The 31-year-old guard was questioned about the MVP competition and if he thought he belonged in the race. Harden had his response brief, proclaiming himself the MVP. The Beard has been having one of the best years of his NBA career in Brooklyn this season.

Harden tallied 44 points (14-30 FG, 4-11 3Pt, 12-14 FT), 14 rebounds, eight assists, and one steal in 42 minutes. He did so on a night where Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant both did not play. Harden is averaging 26.0 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 11.4 assists per game this season.

The Nets have been riddled with injuries this year, and as a result, Harden has performed a lot of games without his All-Star teammates. It’s these types of games that have many people putting Harden high up on their MVP ladder. Other nominees include LeBron James, Joel Embiid, and Nikola Jokic.

Game recap: