MVP – Luka Doncic
The Mavericks traded their second best player and scorer in Jalen Brunson. If you didn’t think it was possible that Luka would even more usage than last year, it definitely could be very possible. Look for Luka to score over 30 points per game while dishing out around 10 assists as well. Nikola Jokic won MVP two years in a row but could see a decrease in his points per game with both Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. back.
Defensive Player of the Year – Giannis Antetokounmpo
It is very possible that Giannis Antetokounmpo could be in the running for both the MVP and DPOTY awards. He should lead the Bucks to one of the best records in the NBA during the regular season and he will get around a block and a half and a stela and a half on one of the best defenses in the league with around 10 defensive rebounds per game as well.
Sixth Man of the Year – Jordan Poole
Jordan Poole could easily average 20 points per game off of the bench this year which would likely be far and away the most for a bench player. The other candidate could be Tyler Herro but it is also likely that Herro could start a good amount of games that would disqualify him.
Most Improved – Anthony Edwards
The Minnesota Timberwolves are expected to make the playoffs and Edwards is expected to take a massive jump in his scoring output. He averaged 21 last year but a lot of people expect him to average over 30
Rookie of the Year – Keegan Murray
A surprise pick here but Keegan Murray is going to start for the Kings and likely will be their third or even second scoring option on the team. He can shoot from three, defend, and rebound. He could easily average 18 points and eight rebounds and lead the Kings to the play-in. The other obvious candidate is Paolo Banchero but he has more competition for shots and the Magic are expected to be one of the worst teams in the league.
Photo Credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Luka_Doncic_(51176525298).jpg
