Welcome to the Basketball Hangover. I write about what’s happening in the NBA daily, even when COVID has ravaged the league.
Nikola Jokic has gained momentum for the MVP award.
(PHOTO CREDIT: David Zalubowski/AP.)
I can feel everyone talking more about Nikola Jokic being the Most Valuable Player for the 2020-21 NBA Season.
First of all, the stats. 26.3 points, 10.9 boards, and 8.8 assists. Let’s throw in 1.5 steals as well as .429 from three. And the Nuggets are in the fourth spot in the West.
So it’s easy to make a case for Jokic. But let’s take a look at the other potential candidates.
Joel Embiid was very much mentioned as the MVP. But he’s also missed 18 games. The Sixers are 10-8 without him but the most recent stretch without him had Philly going 7-3. Sometimes, people remember that the most. Still, him missing that many games could very much hurt him.
LeBron James has missed 11 games. The Lakers are 4-7 without him. He’s also 25-8-8 for the season but if you want to go by basic stats, Jokic is better by the numbers.
Giannis Antetokounmpo has gained momentum as of late. He’s at 28.8 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 6.2 assists. The Bucks are 3-4 without Giannis.
But that’s the thing: Jokic has been the most available out of everyone. He has played every game this season. And his body of work speaks for itself. So at this point, this is his award to lose. I love that he has gone after shots and that resulted in him scoring more than ever.
Plus you know how people have this recency bias. The Nuggets have won 8 straight games. And if they keep that going, I don’t think there’s any way Jokic loses this award.
Not bad for a second round pick, eh?
Bullet Passes
We had a couple of 50-pieces on Friday. Remember when some Boston media wanted Jayson Tatum out of there? Well, he scored 53 points in an OT win over Minnesota.
Zach LaVine went for 50 points against the Hawks in a loss. He had 39 in the first half.
Zion Williamson had a dominant 37-15-8 in the Pelicans‘ upset win over the Sixers. He’s just been so consistent this season.
The Clippers used the second quarter to springboard themselves to a win over the lowly Rockets. A 41-10 second period.
Julius Randle got his 5th triple-double as the Knicks defeated the Grizzlies. Randle has a chance to win Most Improved Player and Tom Thibodeau should be the favorite to win Coach of the Year. I mean, it’s pretty much the same roster from last year.
Second round pick Jordan Nwora got extended time for the Bucks since most of their core was out. He got a career-best 24 points. That’s the way to make your way into the rotation.
NBA Scoreboard
Apr. 9, 2021
Watch This Play
Bradley Beal got fouled on the game-tying three and turned it into a 4-point play.
(VIDEO CREDIT: Bleacher Report.)
Beal has had an incredible season. What a shot.
Everyone, please take care of yourselves during this pandemic. And that goes for everyone involved with the NBA as well.
You can find Rey-Rey on Twitter at @TheNoLookPass.
You can also check out Rey-Rey’s podcast, Rey-Rey Is Fundamental, for more basketball content and, really, whatever else.
R.I.P. Nala.