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MVP voting is an inexact science, but some key factors always come into consideration.

Scoring: Individual production is a must, especially with the NBA almost universally adopting a faster pace and a greater volume of three-point shots, thus leading to more overall scoring. Four of the past six winners have averaged 30 points per game or more.

Passing: Dirk Nowitzki is the only MVP winner in the past 15 years who didn't average at least five assists per game.

Position: In the past 20 years, six MVPs have been won by point guards, three by shooting guards, five by small forwards and five by power forwards. Shaquille O'Neal was the last center to be named most valuable player, taking place 20 years ago during the 1999-00 season.

Age: The average age of MVP winners over the last 20 years is 26.6, meaning we'll be looking at players primarily aged from 25 to 28. Steve Nash is the only player to win the award in his 30s since Karl Malone in 1998-99.

With former MVP winners like LeBron James, James Harden, Russell Westbrook, Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry being aged out of MVP consideration five years from now, here are the players most likely to take their place.