With the 2018-19 NBA season just getting started, I decided to predict the winners of the six end-of-season awards. There are some obvious choices, but some dark-horse candidates could easily steal an award or two.
MVP: Anthony Davis, Pelicans
The New Orleans Pelicans are off to a 4-1 start to the season with Davis leading the way. He is currently averaging 27.3 points, 13.3 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 3.8 blocks per game. Davis has always had MVP level production, but his team was never successful enough to garner him votes. If the Pelicans can put together a successful season, this might finally be Davis’s year. The X factor for AD will be his health, as he already missed one game this season because of an elbow sprain.
Dark-horse pick: Nikola Jokic, Nuggets
Rookie of the year: luka doncic, Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks traded up two picks in the Draft to select Slovenian phenom Luka Doncic. So far, it looks like their choice is really paying off. Doncic is currently averaging 19.6 points, 3.8 assists, and 6.2 rebounds per game. Doncic was by far the most NBA ready prospect coming into the year because of his time playing in Spain. Because of this experience, Doncic will also be the most consistent rookie this year. If the Mavs can make a run at the playoffs, Doncic will be at the forefront of it and will have a good shot at winning this award.
Dark-horse pick: Trae Young, Hawks
Coach of the Year: Brad Stevens, Celtics
After a rocky start to the year, the Celtics seem to be back on track after two straight wins. In my opinion, Stevens is the most talented coach in the NBA and it’s time he wins this award. Stevens is lauded for his after-timeout plays, player management skills, and calm demeanor. Even New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick called Stevens a, “model for all coaches.”
Dark-horse pick: Mike Budenholzer, Bucks
Defensive Player of the Year: Rudy Gobert, Jazz
Rudy Gobert won this award last year, and it looks like he’ll have a good chance at winning it again. He is currently averaging 2.6 blocks and 1.4 steals per game. With his 7′ 9″ wingspan, Gobert is perhaps the most physically intimidating center in the NBA. If the Jazz can put together a successful season, expect Gobert to get the credit he deserves and win this award.
Dark-horse pick: Victor Oladipo, Pacers
Sixth Man of the Year: Julius Randle, Pelicans
Julius Randle was signed by the Pelicans this past offseason and is exceeding expectations off the bench. He is currently averaging 16.4 points and 7.4 rebounds per game. Randle is one of the most underrated players in the NBA and has a unique blend of ball handling, size, and quickness. Randle is a good fit with the Pelicans and will provide a scoring and rebounding punch off the bench. He will likely average over 20 minutes per game, more than enough for him to win this award.
Dark-horse pick: Dennis Schroder, Thunder
Most Improved Player: Caris Levert, Nets
LeVert has been a huge surprise for the Nets and is currently averaging 21.0 points, 4.0 assists, and 5.2 rebounds per game, compared to only 12.1 points, 4.2 assists, and 3.7 rebounds per game last season. He will have an increased role this year and will likely start every game for the Nets. At only 24 years old, LeVert has a high ceiling and this might be his breakout year. If he can continue to produce at this high level throughout the season, this award is LeVert’s to lose.
Dark-horse pick: Cedi Osman, Cavaliers
Hi Nick
I know your dad Mike for at least 20 years.
Live in LA so a huge Lakers fan. Hopefully they improve soon.
Very interesting blog. What about Kyle Leonard as MVP?
Good luck with your schooling and future career.
Thank you for your support! I think Kawhi is another good candidate for MVP, especially if the Raptors keep winning. However, he has already sat out multiple games for rest and has had to adjust to playing with a new team. I believe that these circumstances will push Kawhi below Anthony Davis and others in the MVP race. Again, thank you for your kind words!