The Importance of Narrative: My 2020-2021 NBA Awards Predictions

Every year before the NBA season starts, the sports world is filled with basketball buzz and predictions ranging from who is going to be the next breakout star to which rookie is going to be a bust to who will win the coveted MVP award. While the NBA season is still young, I am going to give my predictions for the 2020-2021 NBA awards.

Rookie of the Year: LaMelo Ball, Hornets

In all NBA awards, narrative plays a huge role, and LaMelo is a prime example of the impact that narrative has. Not only has he been in the spotlight for the past 7 years, but he will also get a lot of playing time because he is on a bad team. These are prime conditions for a Rookie of the Year candidate.

Sixth Man of the Year: Caris LeVert, Nets

Caris LeVert has been a big part of the Nets for the last couple of seasons. He is a crafty scorer, and with him coming off the bench in a Manu Ginóbili style, he is a solid choice for the Sixth Man award.

Coach of the Year: Brad Stevens, Celtics

Brad Stevens has been a top-tier coach for multiple years but has yet to win a COTY trophy. Coach Stevens is respected throughout the league, and the Celtics are in a position to win a lot of games – an important attribute of this award.

Most Improved Player: Michael Porter Jr., Nuggets

The red-shirt sophomore had a breakout bubble experience and showed that he has potential to be an All-NBA talent. His scoring abilities are amazing and he is starting to understand the game a lot more. If healthy, he could take a step forward and have a real shot at getting the MIP award.

Defensive Player of the Year: Anthony Davis, Lakers

Davis has been a devastating defender for what feels like ages, even though he is just now entering his prime at age 27. His mix of height, length, athleticism, footwork and IQ are unique, but what I think separates him from other star defenders such as Giannis is not his elite shot blocking or quality perimeter defense (although he does have both), but his ability to shut down the other team’s best player when it matters most.

Most Valuable Player Award: Kevin Durant, Nets

Kevin Durant is one of the top 20 players of all time and arguably the best scorer in NBA history, and yet he only has one regular season MVP title. I think this changes this year. Brooklyn is poised to be a title contender and KD has looked great so far. I think KD will come close to leading the league in scoring, while carrying the Nets to a top two seed in the East, and this narrative will be enough for KD to win the award.

Jacob Roney is a junior

business administration major

from Sturgeon, Miss.