The NBA’s Most Improved Player Award
The NBA’s Most Improved Player award serves as a hallmark for identifying players who have made significant advancements in their game, transforming from reliable contributors to vital franchise players. In recent seasons, the cohort of past winners, including luminaries like Paul George, Jimmy Butler, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Ja Morant, and Tyrese Maxey, boasts over 25 All-Star selections, highlighting the trajectory towards superstardom that often follows this accolade. Notably, Antetokounmpo’s journey from Most Improved to multiple MVPs and an NBA Championship with the Bucks serves as a prime example of the honor’s impact.
Current Competition
This year, the competition for the award is heating up, with the top three candidates sitting among the league’s elite based on Value Over Replacement Player (VORP), indicating that their progress is not just about inflated statistics but is translating into real value on the court. Utilizing the NBA StatsHub for analysis, let’s delve into the leading candidates for the 2023 MVP race as the season reaches its climax.
Award Overview
The NBA’s definition of the Most Improved Player award is designed to honor an athlete who has shown remarkable growth from previous seasons, specifically one whose enhancements are a direct catalyst for team success. Historical data suggests that the context of team performance is a significant factor, with only one player since the 2011-2012 season winning the award on a team that finished below 37 wins. Last year’s recipient, Dyson Daniels, distinguished himself by averaging under 20 points per game, thanks largely to his exceptional defensive stats, which included an impressive 3.1 steals per game and propelled his team to an improvement of four wins.
Highlights of This Year’s Candidates
Jalen Johnson (+110 odds at DraftKings) stands out as a prominent figure this season, experiencing a meteoric rise with averages of 23.0 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 7.9 assists per game. Joining the exclusive club of players averaging 20+ points, 10+ rebounds, and 6+ assists, he excels in scoring efficiency with a 2.1% Field Goal Percentage Over Expectation and ranks eighth in VORP league-wide. Johnson’s all-around contributions make him a strong favorite for the award, especially as he continues to elevate his game across the board.
Jalen Duren (+360 odds at DraftKings) has asserted himself as the secondary scoring option for the top-seeded Detroit Pistons, which is pivotal in his candidacy. His rise parallels the team’s success, increasing his scoring average from 11.8 to 18.0 points per game. Despite his averages reflecting a positive trajectory, traditional centers have not typically fared well in this category since Jermaine O’Neal took home the award in 2002, which may hinder Duren’s chances as his style of play relies heavily on external playmaking, particularly from Cade Cunningham.
Deni Avdija (+450 odds at DraftKings) has also recorded a career-high season, boosting his scoring by 7.5 points per game and nearly doubling his assists. However, his improvements appear to be more about increased opportunities rather than efficiency, placing him lower in essential efficiency metrics. Additionally, injuries have affected his availability since the All-Star break, raising concerns about his momentum in the race.
Conclusion
Using insights from the NBA StatsHub, Johnson’s overall advancement in performance alongside robust efficiency makes him the standout choice this season. While Duren enjoys the benefits of team success, historical patterns suggest that independent offensive creators often receive more recognition. Avdija’s achievements are noteworthy, but his efficiency issues and injury concerns make his candidacy uncertain. The Most Improved Player award has historically celebrated tangible growth in performance, and this year’s frontrunner is clearly Jalen Johnson, setting him apart from his competitors.
