By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
With the 2021-22 NBA regular season approaching, the NBA GMs have taken part in the annual survey to share their predictions about several topics, including the KIA 2021-22 MVP, the 2022 champion, most-wanted signing, as well as the best international players in the NBA and outside of the NBA.
FC Barcelona star Nikola Mirotic and reigning EuroLeague champion and MVP Vailije Micic are the favorites of the NBA GMs when it comes to the latter poll that was introduced this season.
As far as the championship conversation goes, the Brooklyn Nets are the emerging favorites, with 72% of the total votes. Reigning champions Milwaukee Bucks have received 10% of the votes.
Which team will win the 2022 NBA Finals?
1. Brooklyn Nets — 72%
2. Los Angeles Lakers – 17%
3. Milwaukee Bucks – 10%
Last year: L.A. Lakers – 81%
With the Brooklyn Nets as the clear favorites for the NBA GMs, it’s no wonder that Kevin Durant tops their voting for KIA MVP as well. Following, Dallas Mavericks‘ Luka Doncic with 33% and two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo with 13%.
Who will win the 2021-22 Kia MVP?
1. Kevin Durant, Brooklyn – 37%
2. Luka Doncic, Dallas – 33%
3. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee – 13%
4. Joel Embiid, Philadelphia – 7%
4. James Harden, Brooklyn – 7%
6. Stephen Curry, Golden State – 3%
Last year: Giannis Antetokounmpo – 32%
Luka Doncic is ranked the second favorite for the MVP honors, so it’s no wonder he is considered a “catch” for the rest of the NBA teams, with nearly half of the GMs interested to sign the Slovenian sensation.
If you were starting a franchise today and could sign any player in the NBA, who would it be?
1. Luka Doncic, Dallas – 43%
2. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee – 40%
Also receiving votes: Anthony Davis, L.A. Lakers; Kevin Durant, Brooklyn; LeBron James, L.A. Lakers; Nikola Jokic, Denver; Zion Williamson, New Orleans
Last year: Giannis Antetokounmpo and Luka Doncic – 43%
The NBA is growing more and more into a “worldwide league”, and the GMs have clear favorites both inside and outside the NBA.
Who is the best international player in the NBA?
1. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee – 60%
2. Luka Doncic, Dallas – 27%
3. Nikola Jokic, Denver – 13%
> Last year: Giannis Antetokounmpo – 68%
Who is the best international player NOT in the NBA?
1. Nikola Mirotic – 53%
2. Vasilije Micic – 23%
3. Victor Wembanyama – 13%
Also receiving votes: Marc Gasol; Mike James; Nikola Jovic
Last year: N/A
More Q&A from this year’s survey:
Who is the best defensive player in the NBA?
1. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee – 47%
2. Rudy Gobert, Utah – 17%
3. Jrue Holiday, Milwaukee – 10%
Kawhi Leonard, LA Clippers – 10%
4. Ben Simmons, Philadelphia – 7%
> Also receiving votes: Jimmy Butler, Miami; Anthony Davis, L.A. Lakers; Draymond Green, Golden State
Last year: Giannis Antetokounmpo – 46%
Who is the best head coach in the NBA?
1. Erik Spoelstra, Miami – 55%
2. Monty Williams, Phoenix – 17%
3. Quin Snyder, Utah – 14%
4. Gregg Popovich, San Antonio – 10%
5. Mike Budenholzer, Milwaukee – 3%
Last year: Erik Spoelstra – 46%
Which team is the most fun to watch?
1. Brooklyn Nets – 30%
2. Golden State Warriors – 17%
3. Atlanta Hawks – 10%
Charlotte Hornets – 10%
5. Dallas Mavericks – 7%
Denver Nuggets – 7%
Los Angeles Lakers – 7%
Phoenix Suns – 7%
> Also receiving votes: Memphis Grizzlies, Utah Jazz
Last year: N/A