Final Four MOP Odds
This weekend’s Final Four will feature several players worthy of receiving the coveted Most Outstanding Player award. Last year’s MOP, Louisville swingman Luke Hancock, wasn’t even a starter, but his 42 points and 8-10 shooting from beyond the arc were more than enough to seize the trophy. This year’s group of potential winners are all enticing candidates. Here’s a breakdown of the MOP odds.
Scottie Wilbekin (Florida) – 11/10 – On a roster that lacks a true superstar, Wilbekin is the logical choice to lead the mighty Gators to the national title. He totaled 67 points and 12 assists during Florida’s run through the South Region, and has become the team’s offensive and emotional leader.
Michael Frazier II (Florida) – 3/1 – It’s fairly obvious that Vegas believes Florida will cut down the nets on Monday night, because Frazier is definitely a dark horse pick to win MOP. Besides his 19 point and 6 rebound effort versus UCLA, Frazier has been average at best in the tournament. Center Patric Young is a better choice.
Aaron Harrison (Kentucky) – 5/1 – No offense to the other fab freshmen on Kentucky, but Harrison is the reason why they are in the Final Four. He is 13-24 from three-point range and 13-16 from the free-throw line. Harrison has the size to give Wisconsin and either Florida or Connecticut fits.
Frank Kaminsky (Wisconsin) – 5/1 – The junior big man has been outstanding thus far and Arizona had no answers for him in the West Regional Final. Kaminsky is averaging 18.6 points and 6 rebounds. If he can handle the Wildcats’ superior size, especially Julius Randle, he and the Badgers have a legit shot to make some noise.
Julius Randle (Kentucky) – 5/1 – The freshman power forward has been dominant in the paint, averaging a double-double in four tourney tilts. He’s not the defensive force that Anthony Davis was in 2012, but Randle is a matchup nightmare for most opponents. Kaminsky and the rest of Wisconsin’s front line will have their hands full with Randle’s strength and skill.
Shabazz Napier (UCONN) – 8/1 – The East Region’s MOP is conjuring images of 2011 Final Four MOP and fellow Huskie, Kemba Walker. Napier is by far the most lethal scorer remaining in the field. He is netting 23.2 points per game and has dropped 14 three-pointers. He ripped the Gators for 26 points back in December, including the game-winner. The only reason his odds are 8/1 is because UConn isn’t expected to beat Florida for a second time this season.
Ben Brust (Wisconsin) – 10/1 – Brust could be this year’s version of Luke Hancock. He’s a scrappy three-point sniper who has a penchant for getting hot at the right time. One thing is certain: For Wisconsin to win it all, someone other than Kaminsky will have to come up huge.
Others to consider: Traevon Jackson (WIS), Casey Prather (FLA), DeAndre Daniels (UCONN)
