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With an influx of talent that has been blossoming in the NBA over the past few seasons, there's no denying that some of the league's best young stars have been expanding and improving their skill sets each year. As we continue to dive deeper into what has already been another exciting NBA season, we'll be seeing even more highlight-worthy performances time and again.
Considering how early in the season it still is, it's impressive that there are already several candidates who are making their case for the NBA's Most Improved Player Award in 2021-22. Without further interruption, we'll now take a look at four early candidates who are in strong consideration for the NBA's MIP Award this season.
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Early Most Improved Player candidates in 2021-22 NBA season
Currently providing the Bulls with a bit of everything at the point guard spot, Lonzo Ball has transformed Chicago's backcourt by forming great chemistry with franchise superstar Zach LaVine and his other new teammates. With a much-improved jump shot, dazzling passing, and elite defense, Ball has been playing All-Star-caliber basketball all season.
If he can continue to play at this level and create scoring opportunities for his teammates while knocking down some clutch shots along the way, Ball will help the Bulls be a major threat come postseason time. And, just perhaps, he could earn a little hardware.
Jordan Poole has been providing the Warriors with a scoring punch all year long and continues to shine as a key rotation player in the Bay Area. Poole's play this season has undoubtedly been a major contribution to the Warriors' success early on in this NBA season, especially with Klay Thompson still sidelined.
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His agility, 3-point shooting, and perimeter defense are what has made him a perfect fit in Golden State and will have him in Most Improved Player conversations this season. Whether he's coming off the bench or starting alongside Stephen Curry, Poole's value to this team is massive, and his stellar play will be crucial in the latter half of the season as Thompson works his way back.
In the midst of a career year, Andrew Wiggins has found a ton of success in his third season playing with the Warriors. His improved and expanded offensive game paired with his elite perimeter defense have made him a huge asset to Golden State this season. Slowly but surely reviving his playing career, Wiggins has definitely made a major impact in the Bay Area and continues to shine for them with his phenomenal two-way play.
If he can keep this up throughout the year, this will only be a sign of more good things to come for the Warriors. After years of not living up to his potential in Minnesota, it's safe to say that Wiggins has made a name for himself in Golden State and could be in the conversation for the NBA's Most Improved Player Award this season, along with teammate Jordan Poole.
Through the first month of the season, Ja Morant led the league in scoring and showcased some fancy new moves and an expanded offensive repertoire. With his elevated play on both ends of the floor and even more pep in his step this season, Morant is the frontrunner to win Most Improved Player, despite having missed extended time for the Grizzlies with a left knee sprain.
Morant is still working his way back to full form and is widely expected to be playing at an All-Star level again in due time. This will stake his claim as the Most Improved Player for the 2021-22 NBA season.
