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Into the Bears’ Den: Predicting awards for NBA and the Memphis Grizzlies

By Ian Pierno

May 2, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Dennis Schroder (17) drives past Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving (2) during the second half in game one of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. The Cavs won 104-93. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
May 2, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Dennis Schroder (17) drives past Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving (2) during the second half in game one of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. The Cavs won 104-93. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /
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Ryan Snellings (@rsnellings25)

Oct 8, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) dunks the ball against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first half at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 8, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) dunks the ball against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first half at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /

MVP: Blake Griffin

I went with him here and I plan to stick with it. Griffin can do some big things this year and with Chris Paul already being bit by the injury bug in the preseason, (please pray for the Point God), expect Griffin to shoulder the burden of the offense.

Memphis Grizzlies’ MVP: Marc Gasol

If he can stay healthy, Gasol can wreck opposing teams’ small-ball units. I expect him to have a big bounce back year and even have a shot at making the All-Star team. (though, no specified center position makes that tough).

Defensive Player of the Year: Kawhi Leonard

It will be close with guys like Draymond Green and DeAndre Jordan biting at his heels, but Leonard is just too talented on the defensive end.

Memphis Grizzlies’ Defensive Player of the Year: Tony Allen

Is there really another choice? Expect the Grindfather to be the defensive leader this year while Memphis produces a top-10 defense.

Rookie of the Year: Joel Embiid.

Trust the process. This guy is going to be bonkers and will take the league by storm. Dance moves and a windmill? Oh man.

Memphis Grizzlies’ Rookie of the Year: Wade Baldwin IV

He’ll be a decent backup point guard. Expect some growing pains, but he’ll contribute through the Memphis Grizzlies’ playoff run.

Most Improved Player: Kyle Singler

YEP, I SAID IT. Singler can’t get any worse, right? So the sky’s the limit. He has played decent in preseason and I think he will prove himself to be a contributor. LOOK OUT, LEAGUE!

Memphis Grizzlies’ Most Improved Player: JaMychal Green

He played well in spurts last season, but being thrown into the starting role will be great for him. He might be the 4th option on offense, but he will definitely still contribute and surprise a few teams.

6th Man of the Year: Brandon Jennings

I just said this so Ian will shut up.

Editor’s note: It’s never too late to hop on the Brandon Jennings hype train. 

Memphis Grizzlies’ 6th Man of the Year: Zach Randolph

This is another easy pick. He has transitioned to the bench well so far and his new 3-point shot is an interesting development. He’ll probably be in contention to win 6th Man of the Year for the entire NBA.

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