NBA MVP Power Rankings: Anthony Davis makes statement in week one action

5. LaMelo Ball

One of the biggest additions to the MVP race to begin the year has been Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball. Although the Hornets record may only be 1-2, Ball has helped establish the Hornets as a competitive opponent against anyone they play.

Entering the season, Charlotte retooled around Ball by adding names like Josh Green and returning a healthy Miles Bridges. After a previous offseason that saw very little continuity with the team, Charlotte sought to build around some of their young guys.

Charlotte also added some names in the draft by picking up French product Tidjane Salaun who is expected to be one of the team's most productive role players.

While Charlotte is not in the hunt to win a championship or even a playoff series this season, they've already established the foundation for a strong future. Ball will not only lead the team this season, but with Miller and Tre Mann by his side, the team will be an offensive juggernaut for years to come.

In just the first three games, Ball hasn't only looked like a future all-star but he has looked like a potential All-NBA candidate. Against the Houston Rockets, Ball helped the Hornets charge back from down by more than 20 points and beat the Rockets in their home opener just one day after the season began.

This impressive win not only got Hornets fans hype about the potential of their team but Ball would end up with a 34-point and 11-assist master class in what could have been the most impressive single performance to begin the season.

If Ball truly wants to be in the MVP conversation this year, he will need to get the Hornets back on track and will need to average similar numbers as he did the first two games.