2024-25 NBA predictions are heating up as the season starts on Tuesday, with FOX Sports’ NBA team sharing their expert insights before the action begins.
Last season, Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokić captured the Most Valuable Player award for the third time in his career, surpassing Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Dončić. This year, while Jokić remains a strong contender, many analysts speculate that the MVP award could shift to a new face.
Let’s explore the predictions from experts regarding the league’s key awards:
Rookie of the Year
Yaron Weitzman: Reed Sheppard, Houston Rockets
Among a less impressive rookie class, Sheppard stands out as the most prepared for the NBA. Even with a roster full of talent, his shooting and perimeter defense should secure him significant playing time.
Melissa Rohlin: Zach Edey, Memphis Grizzlies
Edey is expected to be a starting player and a key asset for a Grizzlies team aiming for the playoffs. Standing at 7-foot-4, he will synergize well with Ja Morant, making him a notable figure in this rookie class.
Sixth Man of the Year
Weitzman: Donte DiVincenzo, Minnesota Timberwolves
With a 40 percent shooting average from beyond the arc last season, DiVincenzo is more than qualified for this role. He is likely to see ample playing time, especially as the Timberwolves manage Mike Conley’s minutes for the postseason.
Rohlin: Malik Monk, Sacramento Kings
If the Kings secure a prime position in the Western Conference, Monk is a likely candidate for this award. He excelled last season, leading in bench points (15.4), assists (5.1), and clutch scoring among bench players.
Defensive Player of the Year
Weitzman: Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs
If he stays healthy, Wembanyama is poised to dominate this award for the foreseeable future. His unique skill set is unprecedented in the NBA, and his impressive stats—3.6 blocks and 1.2 steals per game—speak volumes about his defensive prowess.
Rohlin: Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs
If Wembanyama does not secure this award, it would be a major surprise. His rookie season showcased his potential, and with an additional year of experience, he is expected to excel.
Coach of the Year
Weitzman: Mark Daigneault, Oklahoma City Thunder
Daigneault is a skilled coach, and the Western Conference appears ripe for the Thunder to seize. With a young and talented roster, they could realistically aim for 60 wins this season.
Rohlin: Mark Daigneault, Oklahoma City Thunder
Daigneault has transformed a young team into a formidable contender. If they continue to improve this season, he will likely be a strong candidate for this award.
Executive of the Year
Weitzman: Sam Presti, Oklahoma City Thunder
The Thunder are in an enviable position, especially after adding Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein to their impressive young roster. Presti’s strategic moves have laid the foundation for a bright future.
Rohlin: Sam Presti, Oklahoma City Thunder
Presti has garnered respect even from legends like LeBron James for his ability to build a team poised for long-term success. His recent decisions have positioned the Thunder as potential championship contenders.
Most Valuable Player
Weitzman: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder
A recurring theme emerges with SGA, who finished second in MVP voting last season and fifth the year before. His youth and continuous improvement, alongside a strong Thunder performance, make him a prime candidate for the award.
Rohlin: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder
It seems unlikely for Nikola Jokić to win the MVP award a fourth time, which would place him among an elite group of players. Instead, this could be the moment for Gilgeous-Alexander. His consistent growth and last season’s runner-up finish position him well for the prestigious accolade.
