In a season where the MVP race is close, and there is no clear favorite to win the finals, it only makes sense that the most improved race is just as close. This was the first step onto the big stage for guys like Giannis and Jimmy Butler. It is always a good sign for young players to show improvement every year.
So who are the top 3 candidates this year for the most improved player award?
Darius Garland
Garland has taken a big leap this season. With Collin Sexton out, he has helped lead the Cavaliers to the 6 seed in the East. He has jumped his scoring from 17 to 21 ppg, his assists from 6 to 8.5 per game, and he has also jumped his rebounds up by 1 per game.
Garland has been playing elite basketball all season. His three point shooting numbers have taken a dip, but only with an increase in attempts.
Garland made his first all-star appearance this season, a pretty good start for a 22 year old.
Ja Morant
Morant has been playing at a near MVP level this season. His scoring numbers have taken a huge leap this year. Last year he was scoring 19 ppg. This season, he has upped that to 27 ppg. He has gone from contributor, to superstar in the span of one season. His assist and rebound numbers don’t look to different.
Morant has increased his three point percentage up to 34% while shooting 4.5 threes a game.
The Grizzlies are the number 2 seed in the Western Conference currently. For that, a big thank you to Morant is neccesary, he has become the leader of his team.
Dejounte Murray
Murray has been quietly having a strong season. A guy who started off as a defensive guard, has turned himself into an all around star. Last year, Murray averaged 15/5/7 last year. And this year, he is up to 21/9/8.
A stat sheet stuffer this season, Murray has been doing all that, while leading the league with 2.1 steals per game.
Murray seems to be the key building piece in San Antonio and could add to his trophy case with the most improved award.
