2015 NBA Award Picks: MVP, ROY, MIP, DPOY, COY

Sixth Man of the Year

January 16, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Tristan Thompson (13) dunks to score a basket against the Los Angeles Clippers during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Winner: Tristan Thompson (Cleveland)

Runner-Up: Louis Williams (Toronto)

Somebody has to win this award.

Typically, the winner goes to the guard or wing who scores the most points so naturally, it wouldn’t be a surprise if Boston’s Isaiah Thomas receives the award, but my pick goes to the “other” power forward in Cleveland.

Nothing about Tristan Thompson’s numbers wow you — in 26 minutes per game, the fourth-year big is averaging 8.4 points and 8.0 rebounds a game — but he’s been the definition of stability. When the Cavaliers frontcourt struggled early in the season, Thompson was the main reason why things weren’t falling apart, and most importantly, he’s taken the right steps in regards to his defense, which was and is still a major need for the offensive powerhouse that is this Cavaliers team.

The perfect fit, for the team and for this award.

Tom West:

Winner: Tristan Thompson (Cleveland)

Runner-Up: Isaiah Thomas (Boston)

When the Cavaliers were struggling, Tristan Thompson remained as one of the most consistent players on the entire roster. During the Cavs’ defensive downfall earlier this year, Thompson was one of the only players who continued to hustle and offer every ounce of energy on a consistent basis. Averages of 11.3 points and 10.8 rebounds per 36 minutes don’t do justice to the heart Thompson has played with, and it would be a breath of fresh air if this award didn’t just go to a shooting guard year in and year out.

If Thomas had been with the Celtics for more than 20 games, and had more time to show everyone what he can do when given the chance, he would win this award.