3X MVP and possibly a 4th, Nikola Jokic was once again the best player in the league this year. He averaged a triple double on great shooting efficiency, which is nothing we have ever seen from a center in the NBA before.
Similar to last year, the Celtics once again proved that they are a great team during this regular season. They have the highest combined Predicted Salary, meaning they have not only the most expensive players, but some of the most talented as well.
After a down year with the Clippers, Westbrook moved onto Denver and has been an effective piece in both the starting lineup and off the bench. With his experience, positional value, and performance this year, the model has determined he is the most Underpaid player in the NBA.
While also having the highest combined Predicted Salary, the Celtics have the highest Mean Performance for their rotation. This means that this year, they have the most balanced and talented team in the league.
The Spurs go back to back with Rookies of the Year, as Stephon Castle takes home the award. He showed his defensive versatility this year and improved game after game this season on the offensive side of the ball.
After losing Paul George in the offseason, many had the Clippers as a lottery team. But through breakout seasons by players like Ivica Zubac, Norman Powell, and the veteran talent of Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, the Clippers are back on the map. They have the highest Mean Difference, meaning they are paying their players less than their Performance states they should be paid.
Nikola Jokić
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Jayson Tatum
James Harden
Original All-NBA 1st Team: Nikola Jokić, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jayson Tatum, Donovan Mitchell
Cade Cunningham
Stephen Curry
Karl-Anthony Towns
Donovan Mitchell
LeBron James
Original All-NBA 2nd Team: LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Jalen Brunson, Evan Mobley, Anthony Edwards
Tyler Herro
Anthony Edwards
Domantas Sabonis
Jalen Williams
Alperen Şengün
Original All-NBA 3rd Team: James Harden, Karl-Anthony Towns, Tyrese Haliburton, Cade Cunningham, Jalen Williams
Stephon Castle
Isaiah Collier
Kel'el Ware
Alex Sarr
Zaccharie Risacher
Original All-Rookie 1st Team: Stephon Castle, Zach Edey, Jaylen Wells, Alex Sarr, Zaccharie Risacher
Bub Carrington
Zach Edey
Jaylen Wells
Justin Edwards
Donovan Clingan
Original All-Rookie 2nd Team: Matas Buzelis, Bub Carrington, Yves Missi, Donovan Clingan, Kel'el Ware