Discussing the Wizards and the rest of the NBA with Josh Eberley of HOOP Magazine

We talked to Josh Eberley of HOOP Magazine to get his perspective on the Wizards’ turnaround this season and where they fit in the league landscape this season.

Thoughts on the Wizards season? How have they kept up in the East?

Fantastic season to this point. I didn't even think they'd make the playoffs. The answer here has to be development. All the lottery picks in the world don't mean squat if you can't develop your guys, ask Orlando, Minnesota, or Sacramento.

John Wall, is he a top-5 point guard in the league? Where is he on your list?

He has definitely been one this year. The answer on the order changes based on whether we are talking his performance this season or a clean slate headed into next year.

Was Bradley Beal an All-Star snub?

I wouldn't consider him a snub but he's been at that level a good portion of the year.

Is Bojan Bogdanovic a MUST keep for the Wizards?

He's a great fit, he's played better than most expected... However, Porter has to be priority one.

Could the Wizards beat the Cavaliers in a 7 game series?

I highly doubt it. Home court, depth, and the best player in the series all favor Cleveland.

Who's winning the East and why?

Cleveland. I mean, I won't go against James's track record.

Who do you think will be in the NBA Finals?

I'd be very surprised if it wasn't GSW vs. CLE III.

Do Spurs have a shot to run the West and go to the NBA Finals?

A shot for sure, though, Vegas odds don't excite me.

Who's your MVP choice?

Damn. Man, most years by this point I'd be well entrenched with a candidate. But honestly, I don't know. I flip between the main four. I won't be upset, regardless of who wins. Bothers me that people continue to trivialize one to prop another.

Is Rudy Gobert a legitimate DPOY candidate?

Yep. He'd be my pick.

6th man of the year?

Lou Williams.

Most Improved Player?

Giannis Antetokounmpo

Coach of the Year?

Erik Spoelstra.

Where do you think Blake Griffin, Paul George, and Jimmy Butler will be next season?

Best guess is they all stay.

Which free agents do you think will be the most likely to move this summer?

J.J. Redick and Danilo Gallinari.