NBA Awards Watch: Rookie of the Year Race and Beyond
The NBA Awards Watch is in full swing, and this week, we’re diving into the Rookie of the Year race. With the 2024-25 class lacking a clear franchise-altering talent, the competition feels more open than ever. Sandwiched between the dominance of Victor Wembanyama and the hype surrounding Cooper Flagg, this year’s rookies have been underwhelming compared to recent classes. However, there are still a few promising players who could make a significant impact as role players. This dynamic reminds us of the 2016-17 season, where a second-round pick, Malcolm Brogdon, won the award over the likes of Joel Embiid, who missed significant time due to injuries. Embiid’s incredible per-minute production that year—averaging 20.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 2.5 blocks in just 25.4 minutes per game—wasn’t enough to secure the award, as availability played a major role in the voting. Fast forward to this season, and we’re seeing a similar trend.
A Weak Rookie Class Opens the Door for Unlikely Candidates
Jared McCain, the standout rookie this season, has been ruled out for the year with a knee injury after just 23 games. Despite his limited time on the court, McCain impressed with 15.3 points per game and a 58.9 true shooting percentage, making him the most productive rookie. However, his absence has left the door wide open for other players to step into the spotlight. Among the contenders, Jaylen Wells of the Memphis Grizzlies has been consistent, averaging 11.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.7 assists while starting 60 of the 65 games he’s played in. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor has kept him in the running, and his contributions to a winning team give him a slight edge. Stephon Castle of the San Antonio Spurs has also surged lately, averaging 17.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists over his last 26 games. While Castle has the highest odds to win the award (-450), his inconsistent shooting (38.3% from the field and 25.4% from 3 in the first 36 games) and the presence of veterans like Chris Paul and De’Aaron Fox could limit his playmaking opportunities. Zach Edey, also of the Grizzlies, rounds out the top three, averaging 9.2 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks in 20.9 minutes per game, but his case is hurt by missing 15 games this season.
MVP Race Heats Up with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokić Leading the Way
The MVP race is as competitive as ever, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder and Nikola Jokić of the Denver Nuggets leading the charge. Gilgeous-Alexander has been exceptional, drawing fouls at an elite rate and thriving as the primary scorer for the Thunder. His ability to finish at the rim and create contact has earned him comparisons to James Harden, though his approach is more physical and less reliant on flailing for calls. Jokić, on the other hand, continues to redefine what’s possible for a big man,.normalizing incredible stats and leading the Nuggets to consistent success. While Jokić’s case is strong, Gilgeous-Alexander’s ability to carry his team to victories and his improving efficiency might give him the edge. Donovan Mitchell of the Cleveland Cavaliers is also in the mix, averaging 24 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists with 58.5% true shooting. His willingness to sacrifice personal numbers for the greater good has elevated the Cavs to historic heights.
Defensive Player of the Year: Evan Mobley Holds a Narrow Lead
Evan Mobley of the Cleveland Cavaliers is the current favorite to win Defensive Player of the Year (-250), and for good reason. His versatility, athleticism, and ability to guard multiple positions have been crucial for the Cavs’ success. Mobley’s improvement on the defensive end this season has been remarkable, and it’s hard to see anyone overtaking him as long as he stays healthy. Dyson Daniels of the Atlanta Hawks is closing the gap, however, averaging 3.0 steals per game, a total not seen since Alvin Robertson in 1990-91. If Daniels can maintain this pace, he could make a strong case for the award. Lu Dort of the Oklahoma City Thunder also deserves mention, as he’s been a defensive anchor for the league’s best defense, earning him All-Defense consideration.
Sixth Man of the Year: Payton Pritchard’s Efficiency Stands Out
The Sixth Man of the Year race is dominated by Payton Pritchard of the Boston Celtics, who is averaging 14.2 points per game with an impressive 64.5% true shooting. His ability to impact the game without needing the ball in his hands has been invaluable for the Celtics. Malik Beasley of the Detroit Pistons is also in the running, on pace to make over 300 three-pointers this season, a mark only surpassed by Stephen Curry and James Harden. While Beasley’s volume is impressive, Pritchard’s efficiency and the Celtics’ success give him the edge. De’Andre Hunter of the Cavaliers rounds out the top three, thriving as a role player with 68.9% true shooting since joining Cleveland.
Coach of the Year and Most Improved Player: Kenny Atkinson and Cade Cunningham Lead the Pack
Kenny Atkinson of the Cleveland Cavaliers is the frontrunner for Coach of the Year, guiding his team to a historic season that could see them reach 70 wins. His ability to implement a system that maximizes his players’ strengths has been key to the Cavs’ success. J.B. Bickerstaff of the Detroit Pistons has also been impressive, turning a struggling franchise into a playoff contender. Mark Daigneault of the Oklahoma City Thunder deserves honorable mention for his team’s record-breaking dominance, but he’s unlikely to finish in the top three. On the Most Improved Player front, Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons is the favorite (-275), showing significant growth on both ends of the floor. Evan Mobley of the Cavaliers has also made a strong case, improving his offensive and defensive contributions, but he’s a long shot at +8000. Dyson Daniels and Ty Jerome are also in the mix, but Cunningham’s all-around improvement makes him the likely winner.
