The much anticipated 2014-15 NBA season tips off tonight. The action starts in San Antonio, where the Spurs begin their title defense against the inner-state rival Mavericks, who pushed the eventual NBA champions to seven games in the first round of the 2014 postseason. The Spurs have hoisted five of the past 16 Larry O'Brien Trophies, but have never won consecutive titles in the franchise's dynasty run.
There is plenty of excitement in cities outside of San Antonio, particularly in Cleveland, Oklahoma City, Chicago, Los Angeles (regarding the Clippers, of course) and Washington, where championships aspirations are sky-high. The most intriguing storyline is undoubtedly the return of LeBron James to Cleveland. In taking his talents back to his home state, James has his eyes set on capturing Cleveland's first title since the Browns won the 1964 NFL Championship.
The loaded talent among rookies, the return of Derrick Rose and the incessant trade rumors surrounding Rajon Rondo headline other noteworthy NBA plots to keep an eye out on. With a new year of hoops here, I give my way-too-early predictions for the league's prestigious awards and reveal my pick for this June's Finals.
MVP
LeBron James, Cavaliers
Rookie of the Year
Jabari Parker, Bucks
Defensive Player of the Year
Anthony Davis, Pelicans
Sixth Man of the Year
Taj Gibson, Bulls
Coach of the Year
Randy Wittman, Wizards
Projected Standings
Eastern Conference
- Cavs
- Wizards
- Bulls
- Raptors
- Heat
- Hornets
- Hawks
- Knicks
- Nets
- Pacers
- Celtics
- Pistons
- Bucks
- Magic
- 76ers
Western Conference
- Spurs
- Thunder
- Clippers
- Mavs
- Grizzlies
- Warriors
- Trail Blazers
- Rockets
- Suns
- Nuggets
- Pelicans
- Kings
- Lakers
- Timberwolves
- Jazz
Eastern Conference Finals
Cavaliers over Wizards
Western Conference Finals
Thunder over Spurs
NBA Finals
Cavaliers over Thunder
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