Ben Cooper | Writer
January 10, 2021
With the NBA season now underway, we have seen some stars struggle and some players emerging into stars. Some players and teams have succeeded surprisingly so far, while others have disappointed. The award predictions will be described below.
MVP: Stephen Curry
Stephen Curry, a two time MVP, will win his third MVP award this season while carrying the Warriors team to the playoffs. Curry has already had a game where he put up a career high 62 points. The rest of the Warriors team has struggled this season with Klay Thompson once again having a season ending injury. “It won’t be easy, but if the Warriors make it to the playoffs he definitely has a shot at it. His strengths and impact on the court come from leadership and of course, his shooting. Although he doesn’t have the size, he carries the offense. If he puts on a show, I’m sure he’ll win MVP,” junior Justus Timmerman said.
Rookie of the Year: Tyrese Haliburton
Tyrese Haliburton would become the third player of all time to win Rookie of the Year while being drafted outside of the top 10. The Sacramento Kings got a steal when drafting Haliburton with the 12th pick in the draft. Haliburton has the ability to play both guard spots while being a great passer, defender, and three point shooter. His versatility will help the Kings make a playoff push this season and solidify him as a potential star.
Sixth Man of the Year: Jordan Clarkson
Jordan Clarkson is the leader of the Jazz bench and a great scorer. The Jazz will be a playoff team again with the help of Clarkson’s scoring. He averaged 15.6 points off the bench last season and 16.7 points in the playoffs. The Jazz bench doesn’t have much depth other than Clarkson, so expect him to carry the load on the bench.
Most Improved Player: Christian Wood
Christian Wood has started off the season on fire. Wood is averaging 23.6 points and 10 rebounds this season after signing with the Rockets in free agency. It looks like Wood just needed to get out of Detroit to ascend to a great player. Wood will be the key to the Rockets success this season with Harden’s future still uncertain. Wood’s impressive improvement will win him the Most Improved Player.
Defensive Player of the Year: Anthony Davis
Anthony Davis, who finished second in the Defensive Player of the Year voting last season, will win Defensive Player of the Year this season. Davis is one of the league’s top rim protectors and pairs that with the ability to guard players on the perimeter. “I think Anthony Davis will win defensive player of the year because he is vastly superior at blocking and defense in general despite his average size at the position. For example, Antetokounmpo is one of the largest players in the league, however Davis continuously outperforms him on the defensive side. On top of this Davis averages about 25 points per game. With this in mind, he not only is good at defense, but also offense. Davis is a defensive player that can take over a game and keep offenses out of the paint,” junior Matt Dupree said.
Coach of the Year: Monty Williams
Monty Williams, the coach of the Suns, will lead the team to a playoff berth with Chris Paul and Devin Booker helping them get there. The Suns are primed to have a breakout season with Chris Paul helping the young players flourish into high quality players. They will make their first playoff appearance in ten years, which will win Monty Williams coach of the year.
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