I loved the NBA this year. I typically can't say that until playoff time. The games and playmaking during the regular season were as good as they've been in a long time. While we still relied on the leagues core superstars, like Kobe, LeBron, and Dirk to carry the game, a new crop of young stars emerged as the future of pro basketball. The future my friends is very bright!
Now I recall wanting to do this post at the end of last season, but never got around to sitting down and typing it up. It's a new year, and we have a different result this go round.
So here we go with Factoid's NBA post season awards for the 2010-2011.
Rookie of The Year :
Blake Griffin (PF/Los Angeles) - He brought life, energy, and enthusiasm to the Staples Center on nights when the Lakers weren't playing there. He became a regular on ESPN's top plays and highlight reels everywhere. He made it cool to admit you actually like the Clippers. In the end, he ran away with the award after the first month and a half of the season.
The Numbers: 22.4 PPG, 12.1 RPG, 3.7 APG, on .504% shooting.
His Value: Made Clippers' highlights must see television. Raised the bar on rookie expectations.
Why I picked him: It was over early and his competition was limited.
Honorable Mention: Landry Fields, John Wall
Most Improved Player:
Kevin Love (PF/Minnesota) - I understand that the Minnesota TimberWolves are horrendous, but Kevin Love isn't. "The Love Child" as I refer to him, was great this season. His double-double streak, which ended after only 53 straight games, helped make him a recognizable figure on a rather forgettable team.
With an increase in minutes (35.8), came a rise in production in Loves third season. He raised his scoring average by six points, his rebounding average by three, and elevated his free throw % by four points. He also wasn't afraid to shoot the three. Love shot 88-211 for .417% from three point range. All three were career bests. He shot 125 three's his first two seasons.
The Numbers: 20.2 PPG, 15.2 RPG (#1 in NBA), 47% FG, 85% FT. Shot 42% from three.
Why I Picked him: He really came out of nowhere to lead the league in rebounding. That's impressive. Some players can get more minutes, yet fail to produce value. Kevin Love didn't fail to deliver when presented with opportunity. All of his offensive #'s improved. He also toyed with history. Streaks are cool, and the chase of the most elusive ones are intriguing and thought provoking.
His Value: Provides Minnesota leverage to get Ricky Rubio over from Spain. Kevin Love, Michael Beasely, and Wesley Johnson are attractive young pieces that Rubio can grow up with .
Honorable Mention: Derrick Rose, Nick Young,
Defensive Player of The Year:
Dwight Howard (C/Orlando) - The MVP talk for Howard wained down the stretch, but he's without question the most dominant defensive player in the league. The shot blocking is still outstanding (2.4 BPG), and despite not leading the league in rebounding this year (14.1/#2 in NBA) , Howard's presence in the lane looms larger than ever. His team is thin now with the departures of Rashard Lewis and Marcin Gortat, and only Brandon Bass can be considered 'real' bulk up front.
The Numbers: 14.1 TRPG, 10.1 DRPG, 2.4 BPG, 1.3 STP, 185 blocks.
His Value: He's Superman. Enough said.
Why I picked him: Clear winner.
Honorable Mention: Fill in the blank, Kevin Garnett
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