Gregg Popovich, LeBron James Dominate In NBA.com’s 12th Annual GM Survey

We’re currently neck deep in the time of year when player rankings and predictions articles spread through Al Gore’s Internet like a gossip rumor. Since 2001, NBA executives have been joining in on the fun as well with their annual GM survey. Over three-fourths of the league’s general managers believe the Heat will cap off their three-peat in a fourth consecutive Finals appearance, an accomplishment that hasn’t been seen since the 1983-1987 Boston Celtics.

LeBron stakes runaway claims in securing his fifth MVP trophy in six years, best small forward, most athletic, the player GM’s would start their franchise with and the one forcing opposing coaches to make most adjustments. Meanwhile, Pelicans power forward Anthony Davis is the most likely to have a breakout season and Gregg Popovich remains above and beyond the game’s finest and most respected coach.

Miami Heat – NBA Champion (75.9%)
Miami Heat – Eastern Conference Champion (86.2%)
San Antonio Spurs – Western Conference Champion (40%)
Victor Oladipo – Rookie of the Year, Best Rookie In Five Years (80.0%; 40%)
Dwight Howard – Biggest Impact Acquisition, Best Defensive Player (86.2%; 34.5%)
Tony Parker – Best International Player (53.3%)
Tony Allen – Best Perimeter Defender (36.7%)
Kevin Durant – Best At Getting His Own Shot (33.3%)
Golden State Warriors – Most Fun Team To Watch (41.4%)
Stephen Curry – Best Pure Shooter (44.8%)
Chicago Bulls – Best Defensive Team (43.3%)
Detroit Pistons – Most Improved Team (16.7%)

For the full list of superlatives, head to NBA.com.

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