With The NBA Finals set to tip off tomorrow night, let’s set aside the most favorable picks for Finals MVP before the series gets underway.
Warriors: Stephen Curry (Even)
Steph Curry is the clear cut Finals MVP frontrunner in this series. The three time champ and two time MVP will be looking to claim his first Finals MVP award with a championship run. While a fourth championship is Steph’s main goal, you can’t help but think that a Finals MVP trophy will be lingering on his mind as well. Expect big things from Steph Curry in this series, which is why he’s favored to lock up the MVP.
Warriors Wildcard: Klay Thompson (+1200)
Klay’s comeback has been a remarkable, yet streaky one. The second splash brother knows how to leave his mark on a game, as he’s now recorded two games with eight three pointers made in these playoffs. Between his defensive efforts and ability to erupt offensively for a few big games, Klay could find himself sneaking into the Finals MVP conversation
Celtics: Jayson Tatum (+190)
Tatum is the clear cut number one guy for Boston, and rightfully so. Tatum has proven his status through this terrific playoff run, and has shown he is one of the most clutch players in the league. The Warriors defense is great, but sometimes good defense is met with better offense. Tatum's shotmaking and playmaking abilities for Boston could lead to the 24 year old capturing his first NBA title as well as his first Finals MVP award.
Celtics Wildcard: Marcus Smart (+2500)
This could be a long shot, but Smart has proven himself to be the defensive player of the year for good reason. If he’s able to shut down Steph Curry and the Warriors he could win this award similar to the way that Andre Iguodala won it back in 2015 for the Warriors. Smart has also shown he can bring it offensively. If Smart scores eighteen or more points, you’ll most likely see it lead to a Boston victory. Smart is undoubtedly an X factor for Boston, and he could sneakily win this award.
Game 1 of the NBA Finals tips off tomorrow night at 9pm ET on ABC.
