picks for MVP, DPOY, top rookie, more honors

The NBA has unveiled the finalists for its key awards this season, with star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the charge for the Most Valuable Player award, while Nikola Jokic remains a potential threat. The Defensive Player of the Year race features a strong case for Oklahoma City Thunder's DyonicDaniels due to Victor Wembanyama's injury sidelinedness. Meanwhile, the Rookie of the Year contest is closely contested between RJ Wells and Evan Risacher as they aim to make their mark early in the season.