The NBA has announced three candidates for seven awards and the MVP title is getting a new owner.
Doncic and Gilgeous-Alexander would be first-time MVPs. Gilgeous-Alexander was a finalist for Most Improved Player last year — and this year, he’s in line for the MVP prize. This much is already assured: It’ll be the sixth consecutive year that an international player wins MVP, extending the longest such streak in NBA history.
As for the competition for the “Defensive Player of the Year” award, Bam Adebayo, Rudy Gobert, and Victor Wembanyama are in contention. When it comes to the award for players who have shown the most improvement during the season, Tyrese Maxey, Alperen Sengun, and Coby White are among the nominees. In the “Rookie of the Year” category, standout players include Chet Holmgren, Brandon Miller, and Victor Wembanyama.
Regarding the players vying for the “Best Sixth Man of the Year” title, Malik Monk, Bobby Portis, and Naz Reid are contenders. In the “Clutch Player of the Year” category, we have Steph Curry, DeMar DeRozan, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Competing for Coach of the Year are Mark Daigneault, Chris Finch, and Jamahl Mosley.