NBA: 2019-20 dark horse award predictions

MVP: Kyrie Irving

It’s going to be difficult for anyone to stop Giannis Antetokounmpo from repeating as MVP of the league. LeBron James and Anthony Davis will steal votes from each other in L.A., no matter how well they play. The same can be said about James Harden and Russell Westbrook in Houston. The one player other than Giannis with an opportunity to be the sole superstar of his squad is Kyrie Irving.

With Kevin Durant recovering from a ruptured Achilles this season, Kyrie Irving will have the green light offensively. Kyrie will be doing more than simply putting up lofty numbers in Brooklyn. The six-time NBA All-Star will be tasked with taking a playoff team to the next level. The roster is filled with complimentary players who can help him achieve that goal. DeAndre Jordan can finish at the rim, Joe Harris is a lights-out shooter and guys like Jarrett Allen and Spencer Dinwiddie ensure the defensive intensity.

This roster is very reminiscent of the 2001 76ers. Iverson was the premier scorer, surrounded by a roster that took care of everything else on the floor. That Philly team advanced to the NBA Finals and A.I won the MVP.

It’s not far-fetched to believe that the Nets can finish as one of the top three teams in the Eastern Conference this year. Irving has the motivation necessary to make it happen. He’s playing in the same division as his ex-squad, the Boston Celtics. Former teammate, Al Horford, is also in the Atlantic Division, and he had some interesting remarks.

Kyrie Irving is going to have to eclipse last year’s stats of 23.8 points per game and 6.9 assists a night. It’s sure to be a difficult start to the season, as he’s dealing with a facial fracture. Add the fact that new teammates are still adjusting to one another and it could be a slow start for Kyrie and the Nets. But if they can get it together quickly, there’s a legit chance at success for the team and hardware for Kyrie Irving.