2022-23 NBA Awards Predictions
Most Improved: Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers
The 21-year-old has put the league on notice as the third weapon for this Sixers team. Averaging 17.5 points on 42.7 percent shooting from the three-point line, Doc Rivers recently went on record in support of Maxey, calling him “The best young player he’s ever coached.” With a revamped supporting cast for the Sixers and time to build camaraderie with each other, the Sixers are expected to take a big step. Maxey has the potential to be a key figure in the team’s success.
Rookie of the Year: Paolo Banchero, Orlando Magic
Banchero has all the tools to become an elite player in the NBA. He has great size, skill, and intelligence on the offensive end that exceeds most of the rookie class. And after receiving criticism for his defensive intensity, Banchero did a fantastic job in the Las Vegas Summer League that he is no slouch on the defensive side of the ball. As the season progresses, Banchero’s defensive instincts will mature as he establishes himself as the top rookie, meeting the expectations.
Sixth Man of the Year: Devonte Graham, New Orleans Pelicans
After their solid first-round showing against the Phoenix Suns in the playoffs, the New Orleans Pelicans showed that they have the potential to be a dangerous team in the Western Conference. Graham carries a reputation as a scoring combo guard, and the Pelicans have an established backcourt in Alvarado and McCollum. Graham can be the scoring punch off the bench for this squad that no one saw coming after an underwhelming season his first year in New Orleans.
Defensive Player of the Year: Rudy Gobert, Minnesota Timberwolves
In what may be the biggest season in Gobert’s career, Gobert has the tools to show again why he is the most dominating presence on the defensive end. The Minnesota Timberwolves have invested a lot into Gobert, pushing this ball club to become one of the premier defensive teams in the NBA after finishing 12th in defensive rating. It is up to Gobert to step up to the challenge.
Coach of the Year: Willie Green, New Orleans Pelicans
Last year, the New Orleans Pelicans found their groove toward the end of the season and the playoffs. Similar to the Phoenix Suns bubble team, they put the league on notice that something special is coming out of the Bayou. Coming off an impressive first year as a coach, Willie Green has implemented structure and toughness to this Pelicans squad. With the return of Zion Williamson, the Pelicans have the tools to finish the regular season firmly in the Western Conference.
Most Valuable Player: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks
There are no answers to slowing down one of the most dominating forces the NBA has ever seen. On both sides of the ball, Antetokounmpo has proven himself to be a premier talent year after year. Antetokounmpo has made tremendous efforts in extending his range, making the midrange pull-up a sharp tool in his game, and improving his free throw percentage. Antetokounmpo taking another step forward with his jump shot this upcoming season will prove further that he is the top dog in the NBA, and he deserves that recognition with the MVP award.
NBA Champion: Milwaukee Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks were only a few possessions shy of a rematch against the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals despite not having star forward Khris Middleton. However, with the return of Middleton, the re-signing of Bobby Portis, and the addition of Joe Ingles, the Bucks have the recipe to come out on top again behind Antetokounmpo, Middleton, and Jrue Holiday.
First Team All-Defense: G Jrue Holiday, G Marcus Smart, F Kawhi Leonard, F Giannis Antetokounmpo, C Rudy Gobert
Second Team All-Defense: G Dejounte Murray, G Paul George, F Jaren Jackson Jr., F Anthony Davis, C Bam Adebayo
First Team All-NBA: G Stephen Curry, G Luka Doncic, F Jayson Tatum, F Giannis Antetekounmpo, C Joel Embiid
Second Team All-NBA: G Trae Young, G Devin Booker, F Kawhi Leonard, F LeBron James, C Nikola Jokic
Third Team All-NBA: G Ja Morant, G Paul George, F Kevin Durant, F Zion Williamson, C Rudy Gobert
First Team All-Rookie: G Jaden Ivey, G Dyson Daniels, F Tari Eason, F Paolo Banchero, F Chet Holmgren
Second Team All-Rookie: G Peyton Watson, G Benedict Mathurin, F Keegan Murray. F Jabari Smith Jr., F Jeremy Sochan