Golden State Warriors: 3 bold predictions for 2018-19 season

1. Kevin Durant will win MVP

As analysts begin to make their predictions for who will win the MVP Award in this upcoming season, not many people are considering Kevin Durant. The most common picks are LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Giannis Antetokounmpo, but Durant could be the one to take home the award.

The two-time Finals MVP has already been having great regular seasons. In the last two years combined, Durant has averaged 25.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 1.7 blocks per game. These statistics are more than worthy of MVP honors.

I think a large reason Durant hasn’t been considered for the award is because of the hate surrounding his name. For the last two years, the superstar small forward has been the most crucified player in the league. This could easily be why he has been shunned from MVP discussion.

After winning back-to-back NBA championships and being named Finals MVP in both series, KD has regained some respect. The negative perception around his name is slowly being taken away as we remember how great he truly is. Also, the signing of DeMarcus Cousins may divert some of the negative attention away from Durant.

If KD has a superb regular season, which he is capable of, he could win the award this year. He was already known as an elite scorer. Now, he has become a lockdown defender and his playmaking skills have been showcased under the Warriors’ style of play. Durant is the second-best player in the league and will be gunning for the award this season.