NBA: Race to MVP Week 1 Ladder

Nov 5, 2013; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Indiana Pacers small forward Paul George (24) dribbles the ball during the third quarter against the Detroit Pistons at The Palace of Auburn Hills. The Pacers beat the Pistons 99-91. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

1. Paul George, Indiana Pacers – 25.3 PPG, 4.3 APG, 8.2 RPG

You can’t argue against facts, and the most conspicuous fact of this young season is that the Pacers have been the best team in the league. Indiana remains the only undefeated team across the association, and Paul George is to thank for that.

With George Hill missing a couple of games and Danny Granger still out, George has dragged the Pacers along to the top of the Eastern Conference. Despite taking more shots than he has ever taken and being forced to handle the ball more, George is currently shooting 45.5% from the field and 40.9% from beyond the three-point line — both career-highs.

Whether or not George and the Pacers can keep this unbeaten run up or not, George more than deserves to have his name at the top of the list this week, even if it’s temporary.