Here are my award picks for the first half of the 2016-17 NBA season.
MVP: Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City Thunder: I could have gone with a couple of different players for this, but Westbrook is my pick. He is averaging a triple-double this season and is single-handily carrying the Thunder into the playoffs. Some folks thought the Thunder weren't going to be a playoff team, but they will almost certainly make the playoffs barring a collapse.
Runner up: James Harden, Houston Rockets
Defensive Player of the Year: Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors: Green was a finalist for this award the last two seasons and right now, he would likely win this award had the season ended today. Green does a superb job defending opposing players and the Warriors are a better defensive team when he's on the floor.
Runner up: Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio Spurs
Rookie of the Year: Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers: Embiid would have been a third year player had not been for injuries. That said, Embiid has been outstanding this season and because of that, the 76ers aren't a pushover anymore. The 76ers have a nice foundation of him and Ben Simmons (once he comes back from injury) for years to come.
Runner up: Malcolm Brogdon, Milwaukee Bucks
Sixth Man of the Year: Eric Gordon, Houston Rockets: Gordon has had an incredible season. The Rockets took a chance on Gordon and he has been a fine addition off the bench that has been critical to their success. It also helps that he has been healthy this season.
Runner up: Lou Williams, Los Angeles Lakers
Most Improved Player: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks: Antetokounmpo is finally having the breakout season people were expecting last season. His perimeter shooting game has improved and he has had a couple triple-doubles as well.
Runner up: Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets
Coach of the Year: Mike D'Antoni, Houston Rockets: D'Antoni has done an outstanding job this season. This Rockets team is perfect for him and for his offensive system. It also has helped that he and James Harden are able to co-exist.
Runner up: Scott Brooks, Washington Wizards
Executive of the Year: Bob Myers, Golden State Warriors: Myers deserves credit for putting together the best team in the league. Luring Kevin Durant in free agency obviously was huge for them.
Runner up: Daryl Morey, Houston Rockets
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