The NBA released its 2021–22 awards finalists on Sunday afternoon, sparking fan and player reaction from across the sport regarding potential snubs for each category.
As anticipated, Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Bucks, Joel Embiid of the 76ers and Nikola Jokiu0107 were selected as finalists for league MVP. These were the three anticipated finalists and there was not too much contention over the picks across social media.
NBA Defensive Player of the Year was also not too contentious. Mikal Bridges of the Suns, Rudy Gobert of the Jazz and Marcus Smart of the Celtics were all worthy candidates.