lebron could have EASILY won the MVP, but he chose to conserve his resources/energy. Took games off, charged up for the playoffs. His team swept 4-0.
Durant shot his wad going all-out for 82 games, and started the playoffs tired. Barely won their series and lost game 1 of the second series.
We all remember the year Barkley won the MVP and everyone saw him almost lose in 5 to the Lakers in round one... then of course, MJ do his magic in the Finals against him.