With the NBA All-Star weekend only weeks away, it's time to take stock of the first half of the NBA season and check out who's front-running for the major awards. With a half to go, these names could easily fold down the stretch but for now, they are the top of their class.
MVP: LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers
The reigning MVP has been on a torrid pace lately, putting the thumbscrews to some of the top talent in the game (Kobe bryant, Kevin Durant, Dwayne Wade). His team is tops in a top filled Eastern Conference and has been tearing through the cream of the West as well. Averaging 29 ppg, 7 asst and 7 boards, The King is well on his way to back to back MVP's.
Defensive Player of the Year: Gerald Wallace, Charlotte Hornets
How do you earn the DPOTY award? You do it with hussle and a tenacity akin to a starving dog going for a steak. It also helps to be averaging 11 boards a game, 9 of them on the defensive end. Throw in his ability to create turnovers and you have one monster of a defender.
Sixth Man: Jamal Crawford, Atlanta Hawks
When the Atlanta Hawks are needing a scoring boost, all they have to do is look to the bench for Crawford. Averaging 17 pts a game, Jamal has been a clutch part of this surprising Atlanta squad and as much a threat as starter Mike Bibby. If the Hawks are to make any noise in the playoffs, it's Crawford that will be causing it.
Rookie of the Year: Tyreke Evans, Sacramento Kings
Yes, there is basketball in Sacramento and thanks to Tyreke Evans, there is now also hope for good basketball. A rare combination of size and speed, Evans has been dazzling fans and teammates alike with his clutch play. Putting up 20 ppg and nearly 5 assists to match it, Evans is on his way to locking up this award.
Most Improved Player: Marc Gasol, Memphis Grizzlies
The other Gasol brother, Marc is slowly starting to make a name for himself with his yeoman type work ethic and steady play. He has built himself into an offensive threat and has steadily improved his numbers across the board.
Coach of the Year: Mike Brown, Cleveland Cavaliers
Somewhat lost in the dazzling light of superstar LeBron James, Mike Brown has quietly took his revamped team and has them in place to be not only the best of the East but the best of the League. Where Brown may never be known for his Patton like speeches or for being an imposing figurehead like Phil Jackson, what he is great at is delegating authority and knowing what his players want. The consummate players coach, Brown knows when to play the general and knows when it's time to just sit back and let his superstar do his thing. In a game of superstars, that isn't always as easy as it seems.
