The NBA is gearing up for yet another thrilling season filled with excitement, anticipation, and unparalleled talent. As basketball fans across the globe eagerly await the tip-off of the upcoming NBA season, the league promises to deliver a spectacle like no other. With new faces in new places, rising stars ready to shine, the 2023-2024 NBA season is poised to captivate audiences and leave a lasting mark on the world of sports. This season is sure to be a rollercoaster ride of emotions and unforgettable moments that will keep fans on the edge of their seats from the opening jump ball to the final buzzer. Check out our NBA Season Predictions below!
MVP:
Nikola Jokic, C, Denver Nuggets. (+430)
Jokic and the Denver Nuggets are coming off of their first Championship in franchise history. They dominated last year and proved to be no match for any teams in the playoffs. Jokic arguably could've won his third MVP in a row, but voter fatigue kicked in. As one of the most unique and versatile big men in NBA history, Jokic's success often derives from his exceptional passing skills, basketball IQ, and the ability to impact every facet of the game. In one preseason game, Jokic had 25-14-8 in just 28 minutes. I think we all know what to expect (again) this season, his numbers are too remarkable to ignore. If Jokic can lead the Nuggets to a top seed in the Western Conference and continue to put up eye-catching individual statistics, he'll be a front-runner for the MVP award once again.
Rookie of the Year:
Victor Wembanyama, F, San Antonio Spurs. (+110)
Wemby is perhaps the greatest and most unique prospect to ever enter the NBA Draft. This man stands at 7'5'' with an 8 foot wingspan who can dribble, shoot, pull-up, post-up, pass, rebound, and defend. It is truly unheard of, I cannot wait to watch Wemby take the league by storm. He has already shined and shown flashes in the preseason, that is only a preview of what's to come. Wemby does have some good competition for the ROY award, such as Chet Holmgren (OKC), Scoot Henderson (POR), and Brandon Miller (CHA). The Spurs will be an interesting team to watch this year.
Coach of the Year:
J.B. Bickerstaff, Cleveland Cavaliers. (+2200)
The Cleveland Cavaliers won 51 games last year and clinched the #4 seed in the Eastern Conference. This was the first time a Non-LeBron Cavaliers team made the playoffs since LeBron entered the league. The team is young, chemistry is clearly there, and they play great defense. I expect the Cavaliers to build on last year and be motivated by their embarrassing first round exit in the playoffs to the New York Knicks. If the Cavs can win 50+ games again and secure a top 3 seed in the East, I can see Bickerstaff as a top candidate for COY. The value is great as well (+2200).
Defensive Player of the Year:
Bam Adebayo, C, Miami Heat. (+1200)
It is truly remarkable how overlooked Bam Adebayo is as a defender. Bam can guard positions 1 through 5 without a problem. Bam is a game-changer on the defensive end and makes game-saving, clutch blocks on the daily. Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra had this to say when asked about Bam and the DPOY award, “I think Bam is the best defensive player in the league, and I just can't understand why he's not recognized for how impactful he is on that end of the court. So he's just going to have to prove it again and just do it this year until everybody notices. I think [Defensive Player of the Year is] a good award to go for." I agree coach, this is his year.
Sixth Man of the Year:
Immanuel Quickley, G, New York Knicks. (+900)
Last year Quickly averaged 15 PPG off the bench on while shooting 45% from the field and 37% from 3. I expect Quickley's minutes to increase along with his stats. Quickly was edged out by Malcolm Brogdon for this award last year, and could be in a tight race again with the likes of Norman Powell, Malik Monk, etc.
Most Improved Player:
Tyrese Maxey, G, Philadelphia 76ers (+1100)
Tyrese Maxey has improved year after year. In his first three seasons Maxey has averaged 8, 17.5, and 20.3 PPG. With James Harden status in Philadelphia questionable, look for Maxey's number and usage to increase. Even with Harden on the floor, Maxey still averaged 20.3 PPG last year. Additionally, Maxey's playmaking and assist numbers could see growth, with the potential to double his assists per game from the previous season. Defensive contributions, such as steals and blocks, should also be noticeable improvements.
NBA Champions:
Boston Celtics (+380)
Celtics GM Brad Stevens went to work this offseason after another disappointing Eastern Conference Finals exit to the Miami Heat. Stevens traded away former Defense Player of the Year Marcus Smart to Memphis along with Robert Williams to Portland. The Celtics may have also lost Grant Williams to Dallas, but to replace that with Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, will elevate the Celtics over the hump. Now, combine those 2 with Tatum, Brown, and Derrick White. We could be looking at the best starting five in the NBA both on the offensive and defensive end. Sometimes, it takes franchise altering trades to reach the ultimate goal. I believe Brad Stevens' offseason moves will pay off and the Celtics finally raise their 18th banner.
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