NBA Playoff and Award Preview 2006-2007

It's a fool's game, really - trying to predict in October who will win in April. But, just for fun, we'll try it anyway.

For division-by-division previews, please check out my previous articles on "My Profile" page.

First, the NBA's six major awards:

Most Valuable Player: LeBron James, F, Cleveland

The Cavs should be a playoff team again, and that should be enough for James to win his first MVP. James carried Cleveland last year and will have to do so again this season for the Cavs to have playoff hopes. Dwyane Wade is runner-up, but a sluggish Miami regular season dooms his hopes.

Rookie of the Year: Adam Morrison, F, Charlotte

It's the consensus pick for a reason. At the least, Morrison should get the most minutes of any rookie, and will likely have the best numbers. If Memphis struggles early, Rudy Gay may get a shot to catch Morrison down the stretch if he gets significant minutes.

Defensive Player of the Year: Ron Artest, F, Sacramento

Just for the media coverage alone. Artest is a First Team All-Defensive player; left alone in one of the league's toughest divisions, he'll get a chance to show off his coverage abilities.

Most Improved Player: Tyson Chandler, F/C, New Orleans

Chris Paul can make any big man look much, much improved.

Sixth Man Award: Ruben Patterson, Milwaukee

Milwaukee has some offensive options and Patterson should fit in nicely.

Coach of the Year: Byron Scott, New Orleans/Oklahoma City

Another feel-good story in New Orleans, as the Hornets get to 50 wins behind All-Star Chris Paul.

Playoff Picture:

Eastern Conference

Division Winners: Miami, New Jersey, Detroit
Playoff Teams: Milwaukee, Indiana, Cleveland, Chicago, Orlando

1st Round: Miami over Orlando, Chicago over New Jersey, Detroit over Cleveland, Milwaukee over Indiana
2nd Round: Miami over Milwaukee, Detroit over Chicago
Conference Finals: Miami over Detroit

Western Conference

Division Winners: Dallas, Denver, Phoenix
Playoff Teams: Sacramento, New Orleans, L.A. Clippers, San Antonio, Utah