The NBA Awards show is done and dusted and we finally have all our award winners for the regular season.
Regardless of whether you feel there's too much time between the regular season and the awards night, that's the way it is and all we can do is take you through the events that took place.
2017-18 NBA Awards
Rookie of the Year: Ben Simmons, Philadelphia 76ers
The award accompanied with the most drama was probably the most exciting of the night. Although Ben Simmons was the clear-cut favourite, there was a little competition from Donovan Mitchell who heavily made his case during the season. Regardless of everything Mitchell had to say about Simmons' legitimacy as a rookie, Simmons was able to walk away with the award. No bad blood between the two though as they shook hands prior to Simmons accepting the gong.
Defensive Player of the Year: Rudy Gobert, Utah Jazz
One of the more difficult awards to predict, Gobert came out a very deserving winner. A vital player for the Utah Jazz purely for what he can do on the defensive end. It's only Gobert's first time winning this award but it feels like he wins it every year because of how often he's in the conversation. He said after accepting the award that the Utah Jazz have tremendous potential and can very well win the NBA championship.
Sixth Man of the Year: Lou Williams, Los Angeles Clippers
The biggest snub from the All-Star break finally received the recognition he deserved. It was difficult seeing somebody else winning this award based on what Lou Williams was able to do for the Clippers off the bench this season. He averaged over 22 points and five assists per game.
Coach of the Year: Dwane Casey, Toronto Raptors
Yeap, you read it right. Dwane Casey, who was recently fired by the Raptors and hired by the Pistons won the Coach of the Year award. Despite a disappointing playoff run, Casey is very deserving due to what he was able to do with his team in the regular season. Casey addressed being fired in his speech, but it didn't get as awkward as you might've thought.
Most Improved Player: Victor Oladipo, Indiana Pacers
Another award where the winner was kinda predictable. The lack of unpredictability made for a sub-par night, there was no drama when names were being called out and it made the atmosphere seem flat. Regardless, Oladipo had an outstanding regular season and deserves to be acknowledged for the strides he made throughout the off-season and during the playoffs.
Most Valuable Player: James Harden, Houston Rockets
After LeBron didn't show up and Harden brought his entire team, it was pretty obvious where the award was going to end up. Harden, who was incredibly deserving thanked his team, the city, his family and his mum before letting out a "swag'" as he walked out off.
Other award winners include:
Sager Strong Award:ย Dikembe Mutombo
Executive of the Year:ย Daryl Morey of the Houston Rockets
NBA Play of the Year:ย The Clutch Shot of the Year by LeBron James on Feb. 7 vs. the Minnesota Timberwolves
NBA Hustle Award:ย Amir Johnson of the Philadelphia 76ers
Lifetime Achievement Award:ย Oscar Robertson
Twyman Stokes Teammate of the Year:ย Jamal Crawford of the Minnesota Timberwolves
Community Assist Award:ย Kevin Durant of the Golden State Warriors
