Shai Gilgeous-Alexander surges ahead in the NBA MVP race—can anyone catch the Oklahoma City Thunder star? Wes Goldberg, Matt Moore, and Haize break down the midseason awards, spotlighting Nikola Jokic's historic offensive stretch, Cade Cunningham's impact on the Detroit Pistons, and surprising cases for Tyrese Maxey and Anthony Edwards. The crew debates Rudy Gobert’s dominance for Defensive Player of the Year, Asar and Amen Thompson’s breakout defense, and why Jaime Jaquez Jr. may lead the Sixth Man race.

The conversation ramps up with Coach of the Year picks, Most Improved candidates like Keyonte George and Jalen Johnson, and the drama around Rookie of the Year. Plus, enjoy their bold revised NBA Finals predictions—including whether the Boston Celtics, Denver Nuggets, or Detroit Pistons have the edge. Don’t miss this packed analysis of the 2023-24 NBA season’s biggest storylines, stars, and dark-horse contenders.

0:00 – Midseason NBA Awards Discussion

14:29 – Defensive Player, 6th Man, Rookie of the Year

26:28 – Most Improved & Finals Predictions

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Ep. 817: Conservation Wins and Losses with Senator Martin Heinrich

The MeatEater Podcast

Creating new public lands: motivation

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