NBA award picks are straightforward this year. It will be robbery if any of them loses out!
MVP, James Harden: This is finally the year that Harden takes home the trophy. He averaged 30.4 points per game–the most in the league. He also led Houston, 65-17, to the best record in the league. No matter what happens in the playoffs, plan for Harden to win an award he strongly deserves.
Courtesy: NBA Passion
Rookie of the Year, Ben Simmons: The Donovan Mitchell-Ben Simmons argument will never end. But from my standpoint, you can’t overlook Simmons’ numbers–16 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assists per game. And averaging nearly a triple-double every night should make Simmons the front-runner. Bumping Philly all the way up to the #3 seed completes the process.
6th Man of the Year, Lou Williams: This guy is a clinic off the bench. Through 79 games (and only 19 started) Williams averaged 22.6 points through 33 minutes. When he had the hot hand, there was simply no stopping him. Back in January he dropped 50 on the Warriors. Prolific scoring will bring Williams the award.
Most Improved, Victor Oladipo: Oladipo improved tremendously over the year. He bumped his scoring up by 7 points and racked in an extra board and assist as well–not to mention that he led the NBA in steals. With an improved Pacers eager for future success, Oladipo has Indiana headed in the right direction.
Coach of the Year, Brett Brown: He really has ‘trusted the process’ and that patience is paying off. Philadelphia’s young stars emerged this season after going 28-54 last season. This year they were 52-30–a whopping 22+ over .500 and near the top of the East. The team’s vast improvement should bring a trophy to Coach Brown.
Defensive Player of the Year, Rudy Gobert: Gobert plays exceptional defense because he has great footwork and stays level on whomever he’s defending. His 7’1″ frame helps block shots down low and he also protects the paint. Gobert’s defensive play helped Utah to a turnaround season. He deserves to be named DPOY.
