Oct
31
2012-13 Season Predictions
By caseyholdahl
The NBA regular season tipped off last night, but since we're kicking the season off on Halloween, I figure I'm okay to get my season awards predictions in right before our 7:30 PM tipoff against the Lakers. Here goes.
Trail Blazers MVP: LaMarcus Aldridge
No surprise here. I'd guess this year's Trail Blazers MVP not named LaMarcus Aldridge will go to Nic Batum.
Trail Blazers Rookie of the Year: Damian Lillard
Again, a no-brainer. If Meyers Leonard ends up starting at center some time this season (as I predict will happen around the All-Star break), then maybe he makes a run at Damian, but it's not likely.
Trail Blazers Sixth Man Award: Joel Freeland
I think Freeland, much like Leonard, will end up seeing significant more minutes in the second half of the season.
Trail Blazers Most Improved Player: Will Barton
Once Coach Stotts gets comfortable enough with Barton to let him loose on the court, you're going to see why a lot of people consider him the steal of the second round.
One bold prediction about the Trail Blazers: The Trail Blazers will finish the season ranked in the Top 5 in pace after being one of the slowest teams in the NBA the last five years.
NBA MVP: LeBron James
Maybe the departure of James Harden gives Kevin Durant's candidacy a boost, but it's LeBron's world from last season until further notice. Hi Samsung Galaxy!
NBA Rookie of the Year: Damian Lillard
Four-year NBA-ready guards who wore purple in college have a solid track record of winning Rookie of the Year in Portland. It's history.
NBA Sixth Man Award: Manu Ginobli
With James Harden now a starter in Houston, the NBA's most-beloved Argentinean adds another Sixth Man award to his trofeo caso.
NBA Most Improved Player: DeMarcus Cousins
I picked Cousins last year last year, but Ryan Andersen hit a whole bunch of three-pointers and got the nod. I'm sticking with Cousins as MIP this time around.
One bold prediction about the NBA: One team will have a player/coach by the end of the season.
NBA Finals: Miami Heat def. Oklahoma City Thunder 4-1