NBA award finalists: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Joel Embiid, Nikola Jokic up for MVP
The 2021-22 NBA awards all are close contests after the league announced the finalists for the six major awards on Sunday.
As expected, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic are vying for MVP, while the Rookie of the Year has been close all season between three talented rookies.
Here are the finalists for each award.
MVP
Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks
Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers
Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets
Defensive Player of the Year
Mikal Bridges, Phoenix Suns
Rudy Gobert, Utah Jazz
Marcus Smart, Boston Celtics
Rookie of the Year
Scottie Barnes, Toronto Raptors
Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons
Evan Mobley, Cleveland Cavaliers
Most Improved Player
Darius Garland, Cleveland Cavaliers
Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies
Dejounte Murray, San Antonio Spurs
Sixth Man of the Year
Tyler Herro, Miami Heat
Cam Johnson, Phoenix Suns
Kevin Love, Cleveland Cavaliers
Coach of the Year
Taylor Jenkins, Memphis Grizzlies
Erik Spoelstra, Miami Heat
Monty Williams, Phoenix Suns