Here’s how I think things will shake out.
Rookie of the Year: Benedict Mathurin, Indiana Pacers: Mathurin found himself in the headlines well before the season started regarding a comment about LeBron James. While I disagree with the words, I can’t argue with Mathurin’s athleticism. He won PAC-12 player of the year, All PAC-12, and PAC-12 tourney MVP, among a handful of other awards. With the Pacers depleted roster, he should get plenty of playtime and opportunity to showcase his skillset, making him a top-ten pick. With all eyes on Paolo Banchero and Jabari Smith, don’t sleep on Benedict Mathurin.
6th Man of the Year: Jordan Poole, Golden State Warriors: Jordan Poole was a candidate for most improved last season. With Klay Thompson nursing a torn Achilles, Poole got an opportunity to start and shined in the spotlight. On seemingly any other roster, he’d be a starter. But with Klay healthy to start the 2022-2023 season, Poole will likely come off the bench and get good minutes as their 6th man. He should quickly secure the trophy if he comes close to repeating his stellar 2021 season. Fresh off a contract extension, Jordan Poole is set to improve in his new role and could be a 6th man of the year candidate for years to come.
Photo NBA.com
Most Valuable Player: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks: I’m torn between Giannis and Luka for this pick. After finishing 3rd in MVP voting last season, I think Giannis will bring in his third trophy in the previous five years. His presence is dominant on both sides of the court, and he has made tremendous efforts to improve his mid-range and free-throw ability. He’s virtually unstoppable when driving to the hoop, and if he develops an improved jump shot …watch out.
Coach of the Year: Willie Green, New Orleans Pelicans: Despite a significant amount of injuries, the Pelicans came into their own near the end of the season and found themselves in the play-in game. Similar to the Phoenix Suns bubble team, they let the league know they can compete down the stretch. With the long-awaited return of Zion Williamson, New Orleans might find itself as a 7- or 8-seed in a stacked Western Conference.
Most Improved Player of the Year: Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks: One of the more prominent offseason signings, Jalen Brunson, parted ways with the Dallas Mavericks after four seasons. He signed a four-year hundred and four million-dollar contract. After averaging sixteen points through thirty-two minutes last season, Brunson is poised to be a centerpiece in the Big Apple. Where the lights shine the brightest, I expect Brunson’s points and assists totals to increase, helping him secure his first NBA award.
Defensive Player of the Year: Rudy Gobert, Minnesota Timberwolves: After being traded to Minnesota for a king’s ransom, Gobert finds himself on an up-and-coming T-Wolves roster. His defensive play speaks for itself, considering he’s already won DPOY three times through nine NBA seasons. He’ll be paired with big man Karl-Anthony Towns making it challenging for opposing teams to score in the post. As the Timberwolves improve this season, expect Gobert to be a block machine and critical defensive piece. He’ll likely rise to the occasion and bring home his fourth DPOY award.
