2022 NBA Awards Watch: The official halfway-point ballot

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PORTLAND, OREGON – JANUARY 05: Tyler Herro # 14 of the Miami Heat looks on during the first half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on January 05, 2022 in Portland, Oregon, 2022 NBA Awards Watch: The official halfway-point ballot. 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 Soobum Im/Getty Images) /

2022 NBA Awards Watch: Sixth Man of the Half-Year – Tyler Herro

Honorable Mentions: Kevin Love, Kelly Oubre, Jr.

One of the constants of the season thus far has been Tyler Herro being the go-to scorer for the Miami Heat. Despite plenty of other players missing time for various reasons, Herro has been around for nearly all of the games so far.

He is second on his team in scoring, lagging behind only Jimmy Butler. He is the best bench scorer in the league, averaging 20.6 points per game on shooting splits of .428/.388/.870. The next closest scorer is a full four points off his pace. Combine that with being the fulcrum of a contender, Herro is the choice.

That second-leading scorer is Kelly Oubre Jr., who is posting a line of 16.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game. He has found himself a comfortable role on one of the most fun stories in the league.

The last entry on the list is a nod to one man who is now removed and a surprise replacement. Ricky Rubio seemed to be clearly in the conversation, one of the bright spots for the surprising Cleveland Cavaliers. However, after tearing his ACL he is officially removed from contention.

His teammate, Kevin Love, will have to suffice for now. The former multi-time All-Star has finally taken to coming off the bench for Cleveland and is thriving. He is second amongst all reserves in rebounds (7.0 per game in games he came off the bench) while adding 14.0 points and 2.0 assists per game. With stellar 3-point shooting (40.8 percent on 6.2 attempts per game) and solid defense, Love’s career resurgence may finally be underway.