Lou Williams
The former Laker and current Los Angeles Clipper is the reigning 6th Man of the Year. Heavy is the head that wears the crown.
Having come off of back to back 6th Man of the Year awards, it goes without saying that Williams probably is one of the favorites if not THE favorite to take home the award once again.
He has made the 6th man of the year award fashionable.
In Lou Williams, you get a sparkplug like no other. Williams has made a career out of torching opposing teams on the offensive end.
For the Los Angeles Lakers Williams provided a rare spark during a tumultuous time. He was able to carry a heavy scoring load for a young and talented core who were only learning how to become stars in the league.
However, Williams truly hit his stride as he joined the Los Angeles Clippers. He found a coach in Doc Rivers who was able to hone his talents as a red hot scorer and channel it into a pivotal role for the Clippers.
He has been the gold standard in regards to 6th men of the year and it would not be a shock if his historic run continues.
However, things have changed in Clipperland.
With Kawhi Leonard and Paul George now members of the Clippers, the team dynamic might be shifting.
The Clippers are most definitely in win-now mode, and with the Clippers having handed over trade assets by way of players and picks, this might force the ball out of Williams’s hands if he is made a starter and even if he remains in a 6th man role he could see his touches change.
With Paul George and Kawhi Leonard, the Clippers would be smart to have one of these players on the floor at all times, which in turn takes the ball out of William’s hands.
While we should still expect Williams to be in the conversation for 6th man of the year, I expect his numbers to take a bit of a hit this coming season with decreased touches and getting older.
Lou Williams will fight to retain his crown but I have a feeling his time on the throne is coming to an end.