A new NBA season is upon us, so let's make some predictions
Regardless of the upcoming results of the 2023-24 NBA player awards, it is hoped that the competition will be more positive and peaceful compared to previous years. While it may be optimistic thinking, with Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid having both won the Most Valuable Player award, perhaps we can eliminate the immaturity and name-calling from fans who feel aggrieved.
Predicting awards is challenging due to their dependence on team performance and narratives. However, our CBS Sports NBA experts have courageously attempted to make their predictions. The exciting aspect of awards races is that they often fluctuate throughout the NBA season, evolving from month to month, week to week, and even day to day. Therefore, it will be enjoyable to monitor these predictions as the season progresses.
Many picked Jokic to take away a third MVP award in four seasons, while French sensation Victor Wembanyama is the consensus for Rookie of the Year – though not a unanimous selection. All of the other awards – Defensive Player of the Year, Most Improved, Sixth Man, Coach of the Year and Executive of the Year – drew
vastly different picks from our panel.
Wembanayama, however, was the only player who received votes for multiple awards. The Spurs' No. 1 pick has only built the hype in the preseason, using his 7-foot-4 frame to dominate on both ends of the court.
While the player awards get most of the focus, we're making Coach of the Year and Executive of the Year picks, too. There are no unanimous picks here, either, but Celtics exec Brad Stevens and Thunder coach Mark Daigneault both received at least three votes.
Many picked Jokic to take away a third MVP award in four seasons, while French sensation Victor Wembanyama is the consensus for Rookie of the Year – though not a unanimous selection. All of the other awards – Defensive Player of the Year, Most Improved, Sixth Man, Coach of the Year and Executive of the Year – drew
vastly different picks from our panel.
vastly different picks from our panel.
Wembanayama, however, was the only player who received votes for multiple awards. The Spurs' No. 1 pick has only built the hype in the preseason, using his 7-foot-4 frame to dominate on both ends of the court.
While the player awards get most of the focus, we're making Coach of the Year and Executive of the Year picks, too. There are no unanimous picks here, either, but Celtics exec Brad Stevens and Thunder coach Mark Daigneault both received at least three votes.