As the NBA season rolls into the New Year, the race for individual accolades is heating up. The competition for the league’s top awards has never been more thrilling. The MVP race, in particular, has narrowed to a battle between two electrifying stars, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic, while there are a ton of youngsters who are hungry to win Rookie of the Year. Let’s dive into the NBA award leaders and see where everyone stands.
Most Valuable Player
Current Leaders For The Most Valuable Player Award:
1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
2. Nikola Jokic
3. Giannis Antetokounmpo
4. Jayson Tatum
5. Karl-Anthony Towns
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has continued his stellar play this season, averaging 31.0 points, 6.2 assists, and 5.6 rebounds per game while shooting 50.5% from the field. His ability to dominate offensively and consistently deliver in clutch moments has made him the frontrunner in the MVP race, especially with the Thunder firmly in place to finish with the best record in the Western Conference. Of course, he will have plenty of competition from three-time MVP winner Nikola Jokic all season long.
The reigning three-time MVP Nikola Jokic is averaging a near triple-double yet again with 30.8 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 9.5 assists per game. Jokic’s efficiency (57.1% FG) and leadership have kept the Nuggets constantly fighting in the Western Conference standings, solidifying his case for a fourth MVP. Some might argue for Jokic as the MVP again, but SGA’s better team record is giving him a slight edge for us right now.
Giannis Antetokounmpo has been a force on both ends, putting up 32.7 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game. His relentless motor and ability to dominate the paint have been crucial for the Bucks‘ success this season and he has had to carry a very heavy load to bring the team back from a disastrous start to the season. In terms of two-way dominance, no player is better than Giannis and that is why he will be a top-three MVP candidate all season long.
Jayson Tatum’s scoring prowess and two-way versatility are on full display as he averages 28.5 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game. Boston’s strong record is a testament to his consistency and leadership, and we are even seeing the Celtics look weaker when he doesn’t play. Tatum has developed his all-around game every season and right now, he is at his best when it comes to combining scoring with rebounding and playmaking.
No doubt, Karl-Anthony Towns has been pivotal for the New York Knicks, contributing 24.5 points, a league-leading 13.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. His ability to stretch the floor and make plays has elevated the team to new heights this season and that is why Knicks fans are feeling extremely confident about their chances to make the Eastern Conference Finals and push the Boston Celtics for a Finals berth.
Rookie Of The Year
Current Leaders For The Rookie Of The Year Award:
1. Zach Edey
2. Zaccharie Risacher
3. Donovan Clingan
4. Carlton Carrington
5. Matas Buzelis
The 7’4″ center has been a revelation, averaging 11.3 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game while anchoring his team’s defense. Zach Edey’s imposing presence in the paint makes him the clear frontrunner and the Grizzlies are still wondering how a player who dominated in college fell to them as the No. 9 overall pick. The partnership between Edey and Ja Morant has looked stronger by the week.
Zaccharie Risacher’s all-around game has resulted in averages of 10.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game. His versatility and poise as a rookie have stood out this season, and the Atlanta Hawks have certainly benefited from his presence on the wing early on in the 2024-25 season.
Donovan Clingan has been a promising interior presence, averaging 5.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game. His ability to protect the rim and finish around the basket has been key for his team, and he remains one of the few bright spots for the Portland Trail Blazers. No doubt, Portland is looking at Deandre Ayton as their next trade piece because Clingan is showing he can hold down the center spot for the foreseeable future.
Carlton Carrington’s scoring and playmaking abilities have impressed, with averages of 9.1 points, 3.8 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game. His composure in big moments has been a highlight of his rookie campaign, and the Washington Wizards finally have something positive to look forward to.
Matas Buzelis has showcased his scoring touch and basketball IQ, averaging 5.2 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 0.6 assists per game. Buzelis’ perimeter skills and athleticism make him an exciting prospect for the Chicago Bulls although he remains a bit raw across the board and has a chance to continue improving in the second part of the season.
Defensive Player Of The Year
Current Leaders For The Defensive Player Of The Year Award:
1. Victor Wembanyama
2. Jaren Jackson Jr.
3. Evan Mobley
4. Rudy Gobert
5. Bam Adebayo
Victor Wembanyama has been a defensive anchor, leading the league in blocks (4.0 per game) while also grabbing 10.0 rebounds. His ability to guard multiple positions makes him the top candidate, and we all saw this coming after the superstar Frenchman finished second in DPOY voting in his rookie campaign. Gear up people, because Wemby is going to be the favorite for DPOY almost every season going forward.
Jaren Jackson Jr. continues to dominate defensively with 1.7 blocks and 5.9 rebounds per game. His rim protection has been vital for Memphis’ defense this season and he is a key reason why the Grizzlies are as good as they are. It won’t be easy for Jackson Jr to win his second DPOY trophy with Victor Wembanyama ahead of him, but anything can happen in the second half of the season.
Evan Mobley’s defensive versatility has been key for Cleveland, as he averages 1.4 blocks and 8.9 rebounds per game. His ability to guard both the post and perimeter makes him an elite defender, and he has to be in contention for Most Improved Player as well. The Cavaliers have a ton of talented players, including Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland, but Mobley might be the most consistent performer so far.
Rudy Gobert remains one of the best rim protectors in the league, averaging 10.7 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game. His presence in the paint continues to alter opposing teams’ offensive strategies game after game, and despite his lack of physicality at times, will always be a threat because of his length.
Bam Adebayo’s agility and strength make him a defensive powerhouse, averaging 9.9 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game. His ability to switch onto guards and protect the rim sets him apart, and the Miami Heat will likely continue to rely on him to anchor their defense for the rest of the 2024-25 campaign.
Sixth Man Of The Year
Current Leaders For The Sixth Man Of The Year Award:
1. Payton Pritchard
2. De’Andre Hunter
3. Russell Westbrook
4. Santi Aldama
5. Amen Thompson
Payton Pritchard has been a spark plug off the bench, averaging 15.6 points and 3.4 assists per game while shooting 41.9% from three. His consistent shooting and energy have been critical for the Celtics, and nobody would have expected this type of elite production from the 6’1” point guard this season.
De’Andre Hunter’s two-way play has been impressive, averaging 20.6 points and 4.1 rebounds per game. His ability to contribute on both ends makes him a valuable sixth man for the Atlanta Hawks who have found a way to help Hunter reach his two-way potential.
Russell Westbrook is thriving in a bench role for the Denver Nuggets, averaging 12.0 points, 6.4 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game. His playmaking and energy have been excellent for the team because the depth chart would look uncomfortably slim without the former league MVP coming in and making a difference.
Santi Aldama has provided much-needed scoring off the bench, averaging 13.0 points and 7.3 rebounds per game. His ability to stretch the floor and play multiple positions has been a huge asset for Memphis, and he is one component of a very deep Grizzlies roster.
Amen Thompson’s athleticism and versatility have stood out, as he averages 11.9 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. His all-around contributions have bolstered the Rockets’ second unit, and we could be looking at a potential All-Star with the way he defends at a high level and finishes at the basket on the fastbreak.
Most Improved Player
Current Leaders For The Most Improved Player Of The Year Award:
1. Jalen Johnson
2. Tyler Herro
3. Dyson Daniels
4. Norman Powell
5. Evan Mobley
Jalen Johnson has emerged as a key player for the Hawks, averaging 19.9 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game. His growth on both ends of the floor is evident in his increased production, and we could be looking at a potential All-Star in due time if the youngster continues at this rate.
Tyler Herro has taken a leap as an all-around player and potentially the best player on the Heat, averaging 24.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game. His ability to create his own shot and score efficiently has been a bright spot for Miami and the game is coming easy to him right now.
Dyson Daniels has emerged as a very talented two-way guard, averaging 13.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. His versatility and defense have elevated his game significantly, and with Daniels, things are looking very solid for the Atlanta Hawks and their fanbase.
Norman Powell’s scoring efficiency and consistency have been impressive, with averages of 24.2 points and 3.3 rebounds per game. His ability to step up in key moments has been pivotal for the Clippers because the team needed a second option with Kawhi Leonard sidelined for the entire season so far.
Credit could go to Jalen Williams, but Evan Mobley has been spectacular on both ends of the court, posting 18.8 points and 8.9 rebounds per game. The big man has taken the responsibility to be a go-to scorer at times and his defense has improved in terms of consistency. Mobley could be a corner for an All-Star spot this year.
Coach Of The Year
Current Leaders For The Coach Of The Year Award:
1. Kenny Atkinson
2. Ime Udoka
3. Taylor Jenkins
4. Jamahl Mosley
5. Mark Daigneault
Kenny Atkinson has transformed the 28-4 Cavaliers, leading them to the top of the Eastern Conference with innovative strategies and excellent player management. Atkinson has found a way to elevate the play of everybody on a team level, and he is the frontrunner because nobody expected the Cavs to have the best record in the East.
Ime Udoka’s impact on the 21-11 Rockets is undeniable, as he has instilled a defensive mindset and structure that has the young team competing for a playoff spot as a top-three seed in the West. The Rockets are relying on effort and teamwork more than raw talent and that credit goes to Udoka.
Taylor Jenkins continues to guide Memphis to success despite injuries, maintaining their competitive edge and defensive identity. With Ja Morant back, the 22-11 Grizzlies are looking very dangerous again and Jenkins has not lost a step in making the team aware of their playoff aspirations.
Jamahl Mosley has orchestrated Orlando’s resurgence, leveraging young talent to push the Magic into playoff contention. Despite the unfortunate injuries to Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, the 20-14 Magic have still remained competitive in the Eastern Conference and the coach deserves the bulk of the credit for that.
Mark Daigneault’s ability to maximize OKC’s talent has been impressive, with the 26-5 Thunder looking like the favorite to come out of the Western Conference. The only reason Daigneault is slightly behind the other contenders for COY is because he has the MVP favorite on the court whereas the others don’t.
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