ESPN 99.1’s NBA Predictions

With the NBA starting next Tuesday, the 22nd, there are a lot of exciting players, teams, and situations to watch for.  The talent spread throughout the league is something we haven’t seen in a while. With a number of contenders for every award; Jeff Thurn, Jerry P, and I predicted our winners for the 2019-20 NBA Awards along with who we think will take home the Larry O’Brien trophy at the end of the season.

Nick Nagel’s Predictions:

MVP: Giannis Antetekounmpo (MIL)

Rookie of the Year: Zion Williamson (NOP)

Most Improved Player: Lonzo Ball (NOP)

6th Man of the Year: Spencer Dinwiddie (BKLN)

Coach of the Year: Doc Rivers (LAC)

Team That Will Surprise: Indiana Pacers

Team That Will Disappoint: Boston Celtics

Eastern Conference Champion: Milwaukee Bucks

Western Conference Champion: Los Angeles Lakers

NBA Champion: Los Angeles Lakers

JT’s Predictions: 

MVP: Anthony Davis (LAL)

Rookie of the Year: Zion Williamson (NOP)

Most Improved Player: Andrew Wiggins (MIN)

6th Man of the Year: Montrezl Harrell (LAC)

Coach of the Year: Brett Brown (PHI)

Team That Will Surprise: Toronto Raptors

Team That Will Disappoint: Denver Nuggets

Eastern Conference Champion: Philadelphia 76ers

Western Conference Champion: Los Angeles Lakers

NBA Champion: Los Angeles Lakers

Jerry P’s Predictions:

MVP: Giannis Antetekounmpo (MIL)

Rookie of the Year: RJ Barrett (NYK)

Most Improved Player: Marvin Bagley (SAC)

6th Man of the Year:  Lou Williams (LAC)

Coach of the Year: Brett Brown (PHI)

Team That Will Surprise: Miami Heat 

Team That Will Disappoint: Houston Rockets

Eastern Conference Champion: Philadelphia 76ers

Western Conference Champion: Los Angeles Clippers

NBA Champion: Los Angeles Clippers

The NBA season tips-off on Tuesday when Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans make their debut against the defending champion, Toronto Raptors.  Following that game, the clash of LA will begin when LeBron James and Anthony Davis’ Lakers take on Kawhi Leonard and the Los Angeles Clippers. Paul George is not expected to play due to the recovery of his shoulder injuries.