6. Bradley Beal – Washington Wizards
Last season, it was a pretty close race between Bradley Beal and Steph Curry for the scoring title. Curry ended up with the award, averaging 32.0 PPG, but Beal was close behind, putting up 31.3 PPG for the season.
Everyone (including myself) expected Beal to maintain this level of play, but this season has been a bit of a struggle. After 17 games he’s averaging 23.2 PPG on 44.0 FG% and 27.5 3P% for the Wizards. Surprisingly, Washington is 13-7 so far, thanks to the addition of Montezl Harrell who will probably win the 6th Man of the Year award again.
Maybe it’s the new ball the NBA is using, but I think Beal will improve going forward. Maybe he can lead the Wizards to a deep Playoff run if he ups his game.