With the likes of Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Victor Wembanyama likely fall short of the 65-game threshold, some family faces in the awards race will miss out.
All awards are still up for grabs, with half the season still set to go; there are still many players who could take out the awards.
Rookie of the year:
Favourite: Cooper Flag (Dallas Mavericks)
Contenders: Kon Knueppel (Charlotte Hornets), Derrick Queen (New Orleans Pelicans)
The number one pick, Cooper Flagg is the frontrunner to win rookie of the year, even after a slow start to the season.
Averaging 18 points, six rebounds, and four assists on the season so far, Flagg has lived up to the hype so far in his early career.
Most improved player:
Favourite: Deni Avdija (Portland Trailblazers)
Contenders: Keyonte George (Utah Jazz), Jalen Johnson (Atlanta Hawks)
Deni Avdija showed his potential towards the end of last season, and he has proven it once again this season, averaging 26 points per game, and has pushed the Blazers into post season contention.
Sixth man of the year:
Favourite: Jaimie Jaquez Jr. (Miami Heat)
Contenders: Nickeil Alexander-Walker (Atlanta Hawks), Anthony Black (Orlando Magic)
Jaimie Jaquez has revitalised his career after a disappointing sophomore season, and has become the Miami Heat's floor general off the bench, averaging 15 points, five rebounds and five assists for the season.
Defensive player of the year:
Favourite: Chet Holmgren (Oklahoma City Thunder)
Contenders: Scottie Barnes (Toronto Raptors), Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs)
Obviously, Victor Wembanyama would be the clear favourite, but he is likely not hit the 65-game requirement and miss out on any awards.
Chet Holmgren has been one of the best defenders in the league for his short career, and is the best defender on the best defence in the league, averaging two blocks per game so far this season.
Most valuable player:
Favourite: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder)
Contenders: Luka Doncic (Los Angeles Lakers), Cade Cunningham (Detroit Pistons)
The reigning MVP is likely to go back-to-back this year, averaging 32 points per game, and leading the Thunder to a league-best 38-10 record, and the clear best team in the league.
Nikola Jokic would be in contention as well, but will also not hit the 65-game threshold, he may be the favourite if he weren't injured, averaging a 30-point triple double.
