BOSTON — If a single-elimination game determined the NBA’s champion, Kristaps Porzingis would be the winner of the Bill Russell Trophy.
But since it’s best of seven, his effort in the Celtics’ 107-89 win in Game 1 put Porzingis firmly in the early conversation. In his first game since Game 4 of the first round, he had 20 points, six rebounds and three blocks. Most of that came in the tone-setting first half.
Other candidates:
Luka Doncic — If the Mavericks come back and win the series, Doncic set himself up to be in contention. The Dallas guard had 30 points and 10 rebounds. He had a postseason career-low one assist.
Jaylen Brown — The Celtics wing was adamant about how he never wins awards after being surprised to win the Larry Bird Trophy as the Eastern Conference Finals MVP against Indiana. His numbers weren’t as gaudy, but he was still very good with 22 points on 7-for-12 shooting and six rebounds.
Jayson Tatum — The Celtics star, who came in as the betting favorite for the award, had an off night by his standards, but voters like to pick superstars for awards like this. His 16 points, 11 rebounds and five assists, despite six turnovers were good enough to keep him in the conversation if he has better numbers going forward.
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