Handing out some awards for the looming Sixers season.
In what I guess is now becoming a yearly tradition, I’m kicking off the new Sixers season with some “way too early” team awards. Last year’s awards looked pretty good when it was all said and done – especially considering the fact that I had Shake Milton pinned as someone who deserved more minutes (literally my greatest take ever).
With that said, let’s get into the awards for 2021!
MVP: Joel Embiid
No change here, as Joel Embiid remains the clear favorite in terms of who will finish the year as the Sixers’ most valuable player. After missing out on the All-NBA team last season, Embiid should be rolling up with something to prove. Surrounded by proper floor spacing for the first time in two years, I’m expecting big things from #21.
Defensive Player of the Year: Ben Simmons
Once again, no change here. Not only will Ben Simmons end the season as the Sixers’ best overall defender, but there’s a good chance that he finishes as the league’s as well. He saw some DPOY consideration in 2020 (led the league in steals per game), and his defensive capabilities should only get better with time.
Most Improved Player: Furkan Korkmaz
Heading into last year’s regular season, people weren’t really sure what to make of Furkan Korkmaz. Everyone knew he could shoot, but there was little proof that he could be a legit rotational piece in the NBA. Following a breakout season where he averaged 9.8 points per game off the bench, it was clear that Furk belonged. Doc Rivers has highlighted Korkmaz quite a bit this offseason, and he projects to be a crucial part to the Sixers’ bench this season. Seeing him eclipse that 10 PPG mark wouldn’t surprise me in the slightest.
Sixth Man of the Year: Shake Milton
I mean, does this one even need any explaining? My favorite player in the history of basketball, Shake Milton is primed for a monster season operating off the bench. He’s coming off a fantastic 2020 campaign where he averaged 9.4 PPG while shooting 48.4% from the field, and he looked even better in last week’s preseason games.
Super bold take? I think Milton might even see some NBA Sixth Man of the Year consideration when it’s all said and done. That’s how high this kid’s ceiling is.
The Fan Favorite Award (aka the T.J. McConnell award): Dwight Howard
Since arriving to Philadelphia, Dwight Howard has been an absolute joy. He’s appeared to have embraced his backup role, and he’s spent a lot of time mentoring some of the younger guys. He plays with a ton of energy and passion when on the court, which will make fans fall in love with him that much more. Definitely going to be a fan favorite.
The “I Wish You Weren’t on the Roster” Award: Tobias Harris
Last year’s winner of the “I Wish You Weren’t on the Roster” Award was James Ennis, and he ultimately did get booted off the roster. Maybe I have some sort of magic powers when it comes to this award? Regardless, it’s gotta be Tobias Harris. I overall like Tobi and who he is as a person, but it’s just tough to stomach that contract – especially considering how he played in the postseason last year. Unless he returns to his LAC form under Rivers, he’s going to remain a player that frequently appears in Sixers Twitter trade machines.
The “Deserves More Minutes” Award (aka the Shake Milton Award): Tyrese Maxey
I’ve seen two preseason games of Tyrese Maxey and I’m already in love. His ability to handle the basketball and create offense for himself appears to be pretty special, and it’s a skill that the Sixers have desperately needed for awhile. The more Maxey plays – the better the Sixers will be this year.
Photo by John Korduner/Icon Sportswire
