NBA Mid-Season Awards: Updating the ballot at the midway point

NBA Mid-Season Awards: Updating the ballot for the half season

PHILADELPHIA, PA - FEBRUARY 27: Ben Simmons #25 and Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers look on against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Wells Fargo Center on February 27, 2021 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /

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Rookie of the Half-Year – LaMelo Ball

Honorable Mentions: Anthony Edwards, Tyrese Haliburton

Quarter-Pole Choice: LaMelo Ball

Barring an injury or a scandal, the race for Rookie of the Year is all but sewed up. LaMelo Ball has been the best rookie from day one and does not seem to be letting go of that crown at any point. He has the statistical case, he passes the eye test and he has the star power.

Currently, LaMelo Ball leads all rookies in points (15.8), rebounds (6.0), assists (6.3) and steals (1.6) per game. His 3-point shot was a big concern coming into the season and he is shooting 37.8 percent on 5.3 attempts per game.

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The culture has completely changed within the Charlotte Hornets. Adding Gordon Hayward was the kind of infusion of talent that boosts them, but he is not the kind of personality that a franchise embodies is. Ball is and the Hornets are finally important because of it.

Tyrese Haliburton and Anthony Edwards are the two runners-up for totally different reasons. Tyrese Haliburton has looked ready for the big stage from the moment he stepped on the floor. Anthony Edwards is super raw but is due for a highlight every single night and if anyone else on his team could consistently stay on the floor, he may be able to win a couple of games.