Our first installment focused on the NBA GM’s predictions. Next we take a look at the NBA GM’s player predictions.
Who will win the 2019-20 Kia MVP?
NBA GMs: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee (52%)
Making the Cut: Stephen Curry, Golden State
This season is setting up for Curry to be the NBA. With the Warriors losing Kevin Durant while waiting for Klay Thompson’s return, Curry has free reign. The Warriors will look more like the pre-Durant Warriors. That bodes well for Curry.
If you were starting a franchise today and could sign any player in the NBA, who would it be?
NBA GMs: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee (86%)
Making the Cut: Luka Doncic, Dallas
Yes, I know this seems uber-crazy but hear me out. The Greek Freak has to show me he’s expanded his game out to the three point line. More and more teams will play him the same way as the Toronto Raptors did last season.
Doncic is going to be a problem for the league. If Dallas can put the right players around him, the Mavericks could be the “next” in the West. Doncic is as close to having no holes as any young player in the league.
Which player forces opposing coaches to make the most adjustments?
NBA GMs: James Harden, Houston (48%)
Making the Cut: LeBron James, L.A. Lakers
If Kevin Durant was healthy, he would have gotten our vote. Instead it goes to James, in part, because he’s still a top 5 player in the league and he’ll be playing with a more favorable roster this season.
Which player is most likely to have a breakout season in 2019-20?
NBA GMs: De’Aaron Fox, Sacramento (19%)
Making the Cut: Jaren Jackson Jr., Memphis
This was pretty much a toss-up for me but Ja Morant’s presence could be the best thing that has happened in Jackson Jr’s young career. It will open up space for him and that will allow him to put his full arsenal on display.
Who is the best point guard in the NBA?
NBA GMs: Stephen Curry, Golden State (90%)
Making the Cut: Stephen Curry, Golden State
As explained above, Curry is set for a monster season even though I wouldn’t have a cow if you put Dame Lillard or Kyrie Irving here.
Who is the best shooting guard in the NBA?
NBA GMs: James Harden, Houston (86%)
Making the Cut: James Harden, Houston
I’m just as guilty as the next guy when it comes to not appreciating Harden as much as I should. He’s a generational scorer and, yes, his teams have come up short in the playoffs but he is still the most dangerous at this position. Second would be a healthy Klay Thompson.
Who is the best power forward in the NBA?
NBA GMs: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee (59%)
Making the Cut: Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers
I’m going with Davis with one caveat. It is the “healthy” Anthony Davis, if that Davis actually exists. When healthy he’s the biggest problem defensive match-up at that position. He’s also a difference maker on the defensive end.
Who is the best center in the NBA?
NBA GMs: Nikola Jokic, Denver (48%)
Making the Cut: Nikola Jokic, Denver
Jokic is starting to get some love nationally but still not enough. He edges out Joel Embiid even though you could argue the other way. Both will play a pivotal role in their team’s success this season.
NBA: Reaction to GM Survey (Predictions) | NBA: Reaction to GM Survey (Players) | NBA: Reaction to GM Survey (Offseason Moves)
