It’s never too early for some preseason predictions. Training camp is officially underway and the preseason is set to start in a few days. With most rosters set, and players getting back in mid-season shape, it’s time to make some predictions for every individual award.

MVP

3. James Harden, Houston Rockets

Harden had a breakout year last year as a starter for the Rockets. He set new career highs in scoring, rebounds and assists. He averaged 25 points, six assists, and five rebounds per game last year and there’s no reason to believe he can’t replicate those numbers. The addition of star center Dwight Howard should help him by drawing double teams and opening up lanes as well as an efficient scorer to pass to.

2. Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City Thunder

Unfortunately for Durant, he comes in second again. Durant is the second best basketball player in the world. Last year he averaged 28 points, eight rebounds and four assists per game. The most amazing part of Durant is that he continues to improve. Both his rebounds and assists increase each year. Durant will continue his excellent play and continue to improve as a player.

1. LeBron James, Miami Heat

It’s hard to argue against LeBron. He is a four time MVP and has won it two consecutive years. He is the definition of a well-rounded player. Last year he led his team in scoring, rebounds and assists. His season averages of 27 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists are extremely impressive. And, if the playoffs are any representation of what’s to come, LeBron will be required to carry this team even more.

Rookie of the Year

3. Kelly Olynyk, Boston Celtics 

Olynyk was drafted 13th overall by Dallas Mavericks but was immediately traded to the Boston Celtics. Olynyk was one of the most offensively gifted big men in the 2013 Draft. He has the range to shoot from anywhere and the footwork to score inside. He’s also a true seven footer and will have every chance available to start in Boston

2. Cody Zeller, Charlotte Bobcats

Zeller is a big man from the University of Illinois. He was selected fourth overall by the Charlotte Bobcats. Zeller is a very well rounded big man and he should be ready for immediate action. He can score, rebound and defend very well and will likely start at the power forward position next to center Al Jefferson. These two should create a solid offensive frontcourt.

1. Victor Oladipo, Orlando Magic

Oladipo was selected second overall by the Orlando Magic. He is expected to play both the point guard and shooting guard position. Oladipo is a solid scorer, rebounder and distributor; however his biggest strength is his defense. He will be able to defend multiple positions and will be able to use his strength and explosiveness to get easy buckets.

Defensive Player of the Year

3. Roy Hibbert, Indiana Pacers

Hibbert’s defensive abilities were on full display during the playoffs. At 7’2” he is one of the tallest players on the court. He uses his massive frame to bully the offenses big men. He also collapses and fills the lane very efficiently, preventing easy baskets. He also uses his size to swat the ball out of the air.

2. Larry Sanders, Milwaukee Bucks

Sanders had a breakout year this past season. He emerged as one of the leagues premier shot blockers, averaging 2.8 per game. He uses his long arms to his advantage and rejects shots with force. Given that last year was his first year starting, he should only improve from here. He will be the intimidating inside presence for this Bucks team.

1. Dwight Howard, Houston Rockets

I expect Dwight to return to his former self this season. After a disappointing and injury riddled season he should be at full form this year. Just a few years ago Dwight was known as the best defensive player in the league and there’s no reason that shouldn’t be the case this year. He is a prolific shot blocker and he will become the enforcer he once was.

Sixth Man of the Year

3. Tyreke Evans, New Orleans Pelicans

The former King and rookie of the year, Evans should flourish coming off the bench in New Orleans. New Orleans is loaded with talented guards and Evans will be the first one coming off the bench. He is capable of playing multiple positions and that should improve his playing time. Evans will provide a great spark off the bench, whether its scoring, rebounding, or distributing.

2. Jamal Crawford, Los Angeles Clippers 

Crawford is a seasoned veteran and the reigning sixth man of the year. He provides an excellent scoring option of the bench. He is a solid free throw shooter and is efficient from beyond the arc. Crawford is the perfect 6th man as he provides an offensive spark coming off the bench.

1. Harrison Barnes, Golden State Warriors 

I make this choice assuming that Barnes is the odd man out in the very talented backcourt for the Warriors. Whoever Golden State decides to bring off the bench as their sixth man will have an excellent shot at winning this award. Harrison Barnes is an extremely athletic wing who scores and rebounds very well. He is capable of playing multiple positions and he should see a lot of playing time. He is a very effective shooter and can shoot the ball from anywhere. He will be one of the most dynamic and explosive sixth men and he should have great production.