Clippers: Three bold expectations for the 2017-18 season

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BELGRADE, SERBIA – JULY 04: Milos Teodosic of Serbia in action during the 2016 FIBA World Olympic Qualifying basketball Group A match between Serbia and Puerto Rico at Kombank Arena on July 04, 2016 in Belgrade, Serbia. (Photo by Srdjan Stevanovic/Getty Images) /

1. Milos Teodosic will compete with Lou Williams for Sixth Man of the Year

Realistically, it does not make sense that two players on the same team can both compete for the Sixth Man of the Year. There can only be one sixth man, and in Los Angeles, that will likely be Lou Williams. However, as Milos Teodosic begins to adjust to the NBA style of play, he will continue to get more minutes behind Patrick Beverley, likely evening out with Williams.

While Williams will be the “true” sixth man, the similar minutes and great bench production from both men will merit votes. Heck, last season Williams finished in third place in Sixth Man of the Year behind Andre Iguodala and Rockets teammate Eric Gordon. Granted, Williams was fantastic as a Laker and his move to Houston did hurt his chances, but he did get recognition.

That is exactly what Teodosic will get; recognition. We already discussed how the European guard could flirt with the Rookie of the Year, however, a run for the Sixth Man of the Year is more likely. Teodosic will bring a playmaking presence off the bench and very well could average 10 points and 7 assists per game.

Alongside Williams, Teodosic will be one-half of perhaps the best second unit backcourt in the NBA. Teodosic is going to bring the facilitating that will allow Williams to lead all bench players in scoring, directly aiding Teodosic’s numbers as well.

Again, it does seem pretty unorthodox for two players on the same team to compete for the Sixth Man of the Year, and it is. However, both men will get very similar minutes off the bench, both making their case for the award.

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