We’re past the All-Star break and it’s time to get serious about potential recipients of awards for end of the season. The end of season awards in the NBA are always a big deal and this year’s are no different. I don’t think we’ve had such a up-for-debate MVP race in a while or a ROTY race that’s so close, but here we are.
Thanks to all the writers of Sideline Cue for participating in this panel (Sebastian, Matthias, Angel, Griffin, Joey, Pedro, Jakson, Abraham, and Jacob).
MVP: Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets (4 Votes)
Others receiving votes: Luka Doncic (3), Jayson Tatum (1), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (1), Giannis Anteokounmpo (1), Donovan Mitchell (1)
Is it a surprise? The best player in the NBA being chosen as the MVP once again, for his 3rd MVP of his career. Jokic has been consistently great all year for the Nuggets and the main reason why they’re a top 3 seed in the West right now.
Coach of the Year: Mark Daigneault, OKC Thunder (7 votes)
Others receiving votes: Rick Carlisle (2), Joe Mazzulla (1)
The Oklahoma City Thunder are currently the #2 seed in the West, I promise you no one was expecting this in the beginning of the season. Sure, many expected the Thunder to take the next step and maybe sneak into the playoffs this year, but be an actual contending team? Sheesh. Mark Daigneault has been stellar as head coach for a young Thunder team.
6th Man Of the Year: Malik Monk, Sacramento Kings (6 votes)
Others receiving votes: Tim Hardaway Jr. (4)
Malik Monk has been going off all season in a contract year. He’s been a consistent option for the Kings all year off the bench averaging 15.6 PPG and 5.3 APG while shooting 44.9% from the field and 37.4% from three.
Most Improved Player: Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers (4 votes)
Others receiving votes: Jalen Johnson (3), Coby White (2), Scottie Barnes (1)
This award could’ve gone to a lot of people but it’s no surprise the writers of Sideline Cue decided to go with Tyrese Maxey, who’s been absolutely stellar all year. He’s averaging an insane 26 PPG and 6.3 APG while carrying the 76ers without Joel Embiid.
Defensive Player of the Year: Rudy Gobert, Minnesota Timberwolves (8 votes)
Others receiving votes: Anthony Davis (1), Bam Adebayo (1)
The Timberwolves are the #1 team in the West and the impact of Rudy Gobert is a big reason why. Many were confused when the Timberwolves made the huge trade to get Gobert a few years ago, but now it makes all the sense in the world. Gobert has been elite all year on the defensive end and his impact shows night in and night out.
Rookie of the Year: Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs (10 votes)
I can’t lie to you, I was kind of surprised this was our unanimous selection of the whole panel. Don’t get me wrong, Victor Wembanyama deserves ROTY without a doubt, but I was surprised to not see some Chet Holmgren love.
Wembanyama has played like a future superstar throughout his rookie season so far with averages of 20.7 PPG, 10.3 RPG, and 4.7 stocks a game (Steals and blocks).
