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

Parker Fleming (@PAKA_FLOCKA)

Aug 12, 2016; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; United States guard Kyrie Irving (10) celebrates a victory over Serbia after the game in the preliminary round of the Rio 2016 Summer Olympic Games at Carioca Arena 1. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

MVP: Kyrie Irving

Yes, the other Cleveland superstar will take home the MVP. At 31, I expect LeBron to “coast” until the playoffs to save himself for the Warriors. In the meantime, Irving will lead the Cavaliers to a No. 1 seed by averaging over 25 points and seven assists per game.

Memphis Grizzlies’ MVP: Mike Conley

In a starting lineup where four of the five guys are 3-point threats, Mike Conley will thrive in pace and space. This could be the year Conley flirts with a 20/10 point/assist average. If the Memphis Grizzlies are rolling, it’ll be because of their $153M, All-Star point guard.

Defensive Player of the Year: Draymond Green.

After two years of being in the race, this will be Green’s year to win Defensive Player of the Year. Green will be the only player in the league who can surpass two blocks and steals per game, leading him to his first Defensive Player of the Year award.

Memphis Grizzlies’ Defensive Player of the Year: Marc Gasol

Oct 11, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol and guards Mike Conley and Tony Allen react during a timeout in the second half against the Philadelphia 76ers at FedExForum. Memphis defeated Philadelphia 121-91. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

Yes, Tony Allen could get this, too. However, Marc Gasol’s interior presence is a key component to the Memphis Grizzlies’ defense.

Rookie of the Year: Joel Embiid

Trust the process. This kid is the real deal.

Memphis Grizzlies’ Rookie of the Year: Wade Baldwin IV

I agree with Ryan here. After some growing pains, Baldwin will come alive in the postseason, where he will show glimpses of being a future star.

Most Improved Player: D’Angelo Russell

Jul 8, 2016; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard D’Angelo Russel (1) defends during an NBA Summer League game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Thomas & Mack Center. Los Angeles won the game 85-65. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

After his horrid rookie year, D’Angelo Russell will thrive in Luke Walton’s offense. Don’t be surprised if he flirts with an All-Star bid. This will be the first of many years that Russell takes the NBA by storm.

Memphis Grizzlies’ Most Improved Player: Troy Daniels.

Daniels has had a terrible preseason. Shooters have slumps. He will be fine. I think this will be the year Troy Daniels becomes a more complete player. It may not show at the beginning, but, aside from Baldwin, Troy Daniels will grow the most over the course of the season.

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

Zbo will demoralize opposing second unit big men and be a key cog in the Memphis Grizzlies’ bench. If the Grizzlies are a top-4 seed, you can lock up a Zach Randolph 6th Man of the Year award.