We’ve made it halfway through the NBA season, and it’s been an exciting ride so far! With the All-Star break looming, this is the perfect time to reflect on the players and coaches who have been difference-makers. Here are my official picks for the midseason awards.
MVP: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (THUNDER)
When it comes to the MVP award, it’s not just about putting up points; it’s about how much a player impacts their team’s overall success. As we reach the halfway point of the season, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been a spectacle of versatility, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to the top of the Western Conference standings. His ability to score over 30 points a game, effortlessly slicing through defenses, is truly impressive. It’s not just his offense that sets him apart; his defense has been elite, too, making him a nightmare for opponents. Shai’s all-around game, whether shutting down shooters or forcing turnovers, is a testament to his versatility. While players like Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, or even Jayson Tatum could make a strong push in the second half of the season, Shai’s versatility makes him the clear frontrunner in the MVP race.
DPOY: Victor Wembanyama (SPURS)
I’ll be honest: I wasn’t sure about Wemby when he entered the NBA. His size, incredibly tall but still slender, made me question his ability to handle the league’s physicality. But boy, was I wrong. “The Alien”’s success in adapting to the league’s physicality and becoming a true force on the defensive side of the ball has been a pleasant surprise. His height and exceptional skills make it nearly impossible to score on him in the paint, and his ability to block shots or disrupt plays from anywhere on the floor is unmatched. His defensive impact has been a huge reason why the Spurs are competitive, and he’s already cementing himself as one of the best defenders the league has seen in years. He’s living up to the hype and then some, genuinely playing at an MVP level, especially on the defensive end.
6th Man: Payton Pritchard (CELTICS)
Yes, I’m a Celtics fan, but this pick isn’t about bias—it’s about performance. Payton Pritchard has been a major difference-maker off the bench for Boston. While most players in the 6th Man role might just fill in when starters need a break, Pritchard has shown that he can be a game-changer every time he steps on the floor. His versatility, whether he can score, make key passes, hit electrifying buzzer-beaters, or lock down opposing players on defense, is something to be appreciated. He’s helped lift the Celtics whenever they’ve called his number. His contributions have been so significant that it’s hard to imagine the team being as successful without him coming off the bench. Payton has earned this recognition, and if he continues this pace, he could very well win the award.
COTY: Jamahl Mosley (MAGIC)
Jamahl Mosley has done an incredible job leading the Orlando Magic through a season filled with injuries, proving that effective coaching goes beyond just drawing up plays. With several key players sidelined, Mosley has kept the team competitive and relevant in the playoff race. His ability to adapt to changing rosters, manage limited talent, and still foster a strong team dynamic speaks volumes about his leadership skills. While other teams have struggled with injuries, Mosley has kept his team focused, motivated, and playing high despite adversity. He’s shown that coaching isn’t just about strategy but also about building resilience, and the Magic are benefiting from his approach. If the team continues to perform well through the second half of the season, Mosley’s chances of winning Coach of the Year will only grow stronger.
ROTY: Jaylen Wells (GRIZZLIES)
First, this year’s rookie class has been one of the weaker in recent memory, with fewer standout players compared to previous years. I don’t see a true frontrunner this year, but Jaylen Wells has been an exciting addition to the Memphis Grizzlies this season. He’s already making a significant impact as a rookie, showing maturity beyond his years. He’s contributed in multiple areas—scoring, playmaking, and even defense—giving the Grizzlies a versatile weapon in their lineup. Wells has consistently shown that he’s not just here to fill space but to make a difference immediately. His confidence on the court and ability to contribute in key moments give him the nod for ROTY honors.
Most Improved: Cade Cunningham (PISTONS)
Being a former number-one overall pick, Cade has a lot of pressure on him to succeed in this league, and before this season, fans had been left with many questions. Was he worth the top pick? Can the Pistons build around him? Short answer: yes. He’s come back strong this season and looks like a completely different player compared to his earlier years in the NBA. His scoring, passing, and leadership have taken massive steps forward, significantly improving from his previous seasons. He’s been the driving force behind the Detroit Pistons’ resurgence. Cunningham has evolved into the player many expected him to be when he was drafted, and his development this year is a testament to his hard work and dedication. If he continues to improve at this rate, there’s no doubt he’ll be in the conversation for Most Improved Player by season’s end.
