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2024-2025 NBA Awards Predictions!
2024-2025 NBA Awards Predictions!
We are currently in the middle of the NBA off-season. Where players are finding a new home or guys are investing in getting better in the gym. With teams either getting better or worse, it leaves the discussion of who can be the league's MVP. Or if a young player makes a jump, that will make him an instant Most Improved Player. This is my list of players who can win big awards next season.
MVP: Luka Dončić
What a postseason Luka had. Leading the Dallas Mavericks to the NBA Finals only to lose to the Boston Celtics. He has been in the MVP talks for a few seasons. But, due to his team's record, Luka has come up short. Last season he averaged 34 points, 9 rebounds, and 9 assists, falling short of a triple-double. He has been nothing short of special. With the Mavs bringing in guys like Klay Thompson, there is a chance they could finish in the top three in the West. This opens the door for Luka to finally win his first NBA MVP award, which has been long overdue.
DPOTY: Bam Adebayo
This is another player overdue for the Defensive Player of the Year talk. Bam Adebayo has been a contender for the award in recent seasons. He fails to get the recognition. For some reason, the media doesn't see Bam as the best defender in the world. He can guard the perimeter like a guard and protect the rim with ease. He has been the Heat's incredible defensive anchor. It has led them to two NBA Finals runs. Last year was the first step in recognizing Bam's defense. This year could be the year that Bam finally wins his Defensive Player of the Year award.
MIP: Franz Wagner
The Orlando Magic have been one of the best young teams in the league. Becoming the 5th seed in the East along with taking the Cleveland Cavaliers to seven games. The expectations for Orlando to be good are high. After their impressive off-season, they signed KCP. Everyone knows Paolo Banchero will continue to be a star. But one player that has high expectations is Franz Wagner. Franz has gotten a huge extension from the Magic organization. The hope and expectation are that Wagner can be a great 3-point shooter. He has been great on defense and at finishing at the basket. But he needs to develop his shot. This season, the hope is that he can find a shot. So, he can be a second-option threat against other teams. With Wagner's ability to create his shot, he shows promise that he can develop his shooting. If he does so, it would not be far-fetched to see him win MIP along with making the All-Star team.
6MOTY: Malik Monk
One of the best 6th man in the league last season was Malik Monk. In a heated race against Naz Reid, he got injured at the wrong time. Which not only cost him his reward but also cost the Sacramento Kings their chance to make the playoffs. With a healthy Monk and a better roster, the Kings could be a playoff team now. They signed DeMar DeRozan. A great off-ball player, he can also handle the rock. He will have to carry the second unit's offense. If he keeps shooting 35% from three and 44% from the field, it's hard to argue against Malik for the sixth man of the year. Malik Monk, since coming to Sacramento, has been able to shine. With Mike Brown as a good offensive coach, Malik will have many scoring chances. And with him coming off the bench, he will have the ability to control the offense.
I based my predictions on last year. These players were nothing but exceptional during their regular season run. Most will win the award for coming close to winning the award. It will prove their greatness. It would not be a surprise to see other players rise. But, with things as they are, here are my predictions for who can win these individual awards.
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