LeBron James was asked about his thoughts about the MVP race as it is considered fairly wide open entering the season.

Only Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (six), Michael Jordan (five) and Bill Russell (five) have won more MVPs than James' four.

“Well, I’ve never set into a season saying I want to win MVP,” James said. “I’ve always thought of the season saying I want to be MVP for my team and it’s resulted in me getting four of them. So I’ve been available, for the most part, every night and I’ve been available on both sides of the floor. I’ve been healthy.

“So the simple fact that I’ve been able to win four has been an honor, and it’s been a tribute to what I’ve been able to accomplish in my career, but more importantly being able to be on the floor with my teammates. So, it will be great if I’m able to accomplish another one by doing what I need to do to help this team win. Because we got to win to get one. No matter how great your individual numbers are or your play is, your team has to be successful, and I’ve been able to be a part of some successful teams so far.”

James averaged 36.1 minutes per game two seasons ago and 35.6 last year - setting a career low each time. 

James was asked if his reduced minutes could impact his MVP candidacy.

"No, because Steph played 31 minutes a game and he won the MVP," said James.