Every few years, there’s a highly controversial MVP pick. Most recently, Russell Westbrook won MVP over James Harden on the back of a historic season where he average a triple-double. Let’s look at the historical precedent for MVP vote share and determine the least and most deserving MVPs.
Using machine learning to predict the best distributors in the 2018 draft
Though the top of the 2018 draft seems heavy on bigs and forwards, there’s bound to be several starting guards coming out of the draft class. Let’s see who has the best distributing ability by using historical college stats to predict NBA assists and turnovers.
Using machine learning to predict the best defenders in the 2018 draft
With defensive freaks like Mohamed Bamba and Jaren Jackson Jr., this draft class seems strong defensively. Examining how historical players’ college stats predicted their NBA defense, we can predict the best defenders for this upcoming draft class.
Using machine learning to predict the top shooters in the 2018 draft
With the NBA’s modern emphasis on 3-point shooting, draft good shooters has become more and more important. By looking at how historical players’ college shooting stats predicted their NBA PPG, we can predict the best shooters in the upcoming draft class.
Is wingspan or height a better predictor of NBA defense?
Over the past several years, scouts and fans have begun to place a bigger emphasis on wingspan. Because wingspan affects a player’s ability to contest a shot, interrupt a passing lane, etc., many think it affects defense more than height. Is this assumption correct?