Here are my way too early hot takes for who’s going to win some of the NBA awards. Enjoy!
MVP: Luka Doncic - Dallas Mavericks
This 23-year-old superstar is taking the league by storm entering his 5th season. He’s already broken Michael Jordan’s points-per-game playoff average (33.4) with a +.1 differential (33.5). But that's not all of his accomplishments: He’s won NBA Rookie of the Year, was named to the NBA All-Rookie Team, and he’s been a three-time NBA All-Star, and an All-NBA Team player in each of the 2020-2022 seasons. The future is bright for this 23-year-old, but it might be coming sooner than he thinks.
Rookie of the Year: Paolo Banchero - Orlando Magic
At first I was going to pick Chet Holmgreen, but he suffered a season-ending injury, so then I thought Paolo Banchero is the next best choice, because I believe he will be an absolute unit on the court. He is also already starting as a rookie, which means a lot more playing time, which means higher stats, which means a higher percentage chance of winning rookie of the year.
6th Man of the Year: Tyler Herro - Miami Heat
This 22-year-old just signed a $130 million, four-year deal. He won 6th Man of the year last year averaging 20 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 40% from three-point range. First of all, Tyler Herro should be starting over Max Strus, but the owner said “No”, so Herro has to prove himself again this year to hopefully acquire the starting spot for the 2024 season.
Defensive Player of the Year: Zion Williamson - New Orleans Pelicans
This might surprise multiple people, but last year's Defensive Player of the Year was Marcus Smart who averaged 1.7 steals and 0.3 blocks per game. Don’t get me wrong, that’s very good, but Zion in the clips and games I’ve seen seems to have a lot of potential and can easily take advantage of a defender. We all know Zion was hurt for the last two years, but he averaged 0.9 steals and 0.6 blocks per game, but I honestly see him having a greater impact in the upcoming season.
Most Improved Player: Jordan Poole - Golden State Warriors
Jordan Poole was predicted to be drafted in the second round of the 2019 NBA draft, but he was actually picked 28th in the first round. Everyone thought that was a dumb pick for the Golden State Warriors, but Jordan proved all the haters wrong by avergaing 18 points, 3 rebounds, and, 4 assists per game coming off the bench! Even though there has been some tension within the Warriors team, I feel that Poole is destined to average 22+ points per game this coming season.
So whether or not you agree with some of my hot takes, at least we all know this is going to be a great NBA season!
Image Source: ESPN