CHIP'S PREDICTIONS
Most Valuable Player:
Tough call but I have to go with Kobe Bryant due to the Los Angeles Lakers' injuries. Chris Paul and LeBron James both received serious consideration.
Rookie of the Year:
Al Horford. I considered Kevin Durant, but the Seattle SuperSonics didn't improve while the Atlanta Hawks became a playoff team. Individual award, I know, but nearly averaging a double-double on a playoff team means a lot more than scoring a lot of points while barely hitting 40% of your shots.
Sixth Man of the Year:
Walk over for Manu Ginobili.
Most Improved Player:
Hedo Turkoglu. I seriously considered Rudy Gay and his incredible sophomore season but Hedo's career high in points, rebounds and assists on a playoff-caliber team overshadowed Rudy's individual excellence on a terrible team.
Defensive Player of the Year:
Tough call here, but I have to go with Shane Battier. It isn't the steals, the blocks, but more the overall excellence every night that swayed my vote. He always draws the toughest guard and consistently excels in shutting down the opponent.
Coach of the Year:
Byron Scott of the New Orleans Hornets.
All-NBA First Team
- Chris Paul
- Kobe Bryant
- LeBron James
- Kevin Garnett
- Tim Duncan
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