With the All-Star break starting, and the NBA season already past the halfway point, its time to take a look at the “who are the favorites” to win this years NBA awards.
In September, I did a crystal ball prediction on which players would win what award, time to take a look at how I did.
MVP
James Harden
Switching Harden to Point Guard was looked at as odd when it was announced. But who would have thought that it would be as effective as it has been? Harden is averaging 29.2 points, 11.3 assists and 8.3 rebounds per game. He also has the Rockets at an impressive 40-18 record this season. The Beard leads the NBA in assists per game and is third in scoring, the only threat for the MVP crown is Russell Westbrook who is absurdly averaging a triple double this season.
Original Prediction: LeBron James
Rookie of the Year
Joel Embiid
Trusting the Process seems to be working out just fine for the 76ers. The long awaited debut began for young Center Joel Embiid and he has not disappointed. The 1st rounder from 2014 is averaging 20.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game. He has impressed the entire league. throughout the season.
Original Prediction: Ben Simmons
Defensive Player of the Year
Draymond Green
The versatile Power Forward has played great on the defensive end this season and the Warriors are one of the best defensive teams in the league. But the race is far from over, this award could easily go to the Stifle Tower, Rudy Gobert, who is the anchor for Utah’s top ranked defense, or it can go to the reigning champion Kawhi Leonard.
Original Prediction: Hassan Whiteside
Sixth Man of the Year
Eric Gordon
A prediction that was spot on is that of Houston Rockets SF Eric Gordon. Gordon is averaging 17.2 points, 2 assists, and 2 rebounds per game this season and has been a tremendous boost for the Rockets when James Harden is on the bench. The only person that can take the award away from him is the Lakers Lou Williams who has been playing great as of late.
Original Prediction: Eric Gordon
Most Improved Player
Giannis Antetokounmpo
The “Greek Freak” has exploded on the scene this. His averages have gone up in every major stat category. He went from averaging 16 points, 7.7 rebounds and 4.3 assists a game, to 23, 9, and 5. Giannis has shown that he is a great all around player, he is also the only player to lead his team in points, rebounds, assists, steals and blocks.
Original Pick: Harrison Barnes
Coach of the Year
Mike D’Antoni
This season, Houston is on pace to win 57 games, their offense is ranked second only to the Golden State Warriors, and their star player is the lead candidate for MVP. Mike D’Antoni turned this franchise around, and has earned this award midway through the season. There are a few other candidates such as Scott Brooks, Brad Stevens, David Fizdale and Erik Spoelstra, but if the season continues the way it has been going, D’Antoni will come away with the award.
Original Pick: Steve Kerr
