The NBA is expected to announce their plan to return soon. And even though we’re not sure what that will look like, we have a good idea of who could be this season’s award winners. Here is my take on who should take home the hardware.
MVP: LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers
The MVP seems to be a two man race (again/still?) with LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo dominating the league. It seems most people believe Giannis will be the winner, but my vote goes to the King. LeBron has had one of his most impressive seasons in an outstanding career, leading the league in assists for the first time in his career, with 10.6 assists per game. It’s not a career achievement award, but Gianis is also to the point in his career where he is going to have to show us something special to keep taking home the trophy.
Rookie of the Year: Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies
Another two man race but this one isn’t nearly as close. Zion quite literally burst on the scene with his explosive plays but missed a majority of the shortened season. Ja Morant has been THE guy in Memphis and has rightfully earned this award with his play.
Coach of the Year: Nick Nurse, Toronto Raptors
The Toronto Raptors replaced their best player in Kawhi Leonard and STILL finished second in a deep Eastern Conference. I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Raptors make another deep push in the playoffs with Nurse leading the charge.
Sixth Man of the Year: Lou Williams, Los Angeles Clippers
The Clippers haven’t played many games with their full lineup available and still managed to finish second in the Western Conference. My top two guys for this award come from LA, just as they did last season. Williams took home the trophy in 2019 with teammate Montrezl Harrell finishing second and I think it stays that way again this year.
Most Improved Player of the Year: Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks
Last year’s rookie of the year took a huge step in hius game and even made a solid run for MVP consideration. Luka improved his points, rebounds, assists and field goal percent in his second year and is an up and coming star of the NBA.
Defensive Player of the Year: Giannis Antetokounmpo
Not many players have won the MVP and defensive player of the year in the same season and Giannis has a real shot. I think he will have to settle for being the league’s top defender this season with the performance we’re seeing from LeBron, but Giannis adds another trophy to his collection.
