2019 NBA Predictions

The NBA is back today. I think we have a pretty good idea of who’s gonna win the Finals, but the awards are up for grabs. These are my predictions.

MVP – LeBron James

(photo via Washington Post)

If the Lakers can manage to win 50 games this year, the award is as good as his. Nobody from the Warriors can win it, and unless Giannis and the Bucks take a huge step this year, or LeBron misses more than 15 games, the MVP is as good as LeBron’s.

Sixth Man of the Year – Terry Rozier

(photo via Hardwood Houdini)

This award could easily go to Lou Williams again, but Rozier makes a very compelling case. Rozier will lead what is probably the best second unit in the NBA. If he can become a more efficient scorer and the Celtics can win 57 games this year — which I think they can — then Rozier should win the award.

Rookie of the Year – Luka Doncic

(photo via The Smoking Cuban)

Doncic wins my vote mainly based on the idea that he’s the most NBA ready due to having played against high-level competition for the years. His adjustment to the NBA won’t be nearly as tough as top pick Deandre Ayton’s.

Most Improved Player – Jamal Murray

(photo via NBA.com) 

Murray may already be too good to win this award, but he hasn’t been recognized for it. If Murray can score 22 points per game and the Nuggets make the playoffs, then he’ll get the recognition he deserves and win the Most Improved Player award.

Defensive Player of the Year – Rudy Gobert

(photo via SLC Dunk)

If the Jazz can get a top 5 seed, it will be because of their defense. Gobert is as dominant on defense as anyone has been in the history of the NBA, and he deserves to win this award every healthy year he plays in the NBA.

Coach of the Year – Brad Stevens

(photo via Liberty Ballers)

The Celtics win 60 games this year on the back of young players like Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, and Terry Rozier. How could Stevens not win this award?