Who Are the Top 5 NBA Most Improved Player Candidates This Season?

2025-11-15 14:00

As I sit here watching the latest NBA highlights, I can't help but marvel at how certain players seem to transform overnight. This season has been particularly fascinating in that regard - we're witnessing several athletes make the kind of leap that makes you do a double-take when checking the stat sheets. The Most Improved Player award has always been one of my favorite honors because it celebrates growth, dedication, and that magical moment when potential finally translates into consistent production. Having followed the NBA for over fifteen years, I've developed a keen eye for spotting these transformations before they become obvious to everyone else.

Let me start with my top candidate, because frankly, I think he's running away with this race. Tyrese Maxey's evolution has been nothing short of spectacular. When James Harden was traded to the Clippers, many wondered if the 76ers would collapse without his playmaking. Instead, Maxey stepped up in ways I didn't think possible. His scoring average jumped from 20.3 points last season to over 26 points per game this year, and what's more impressive is his efficiency. The kid is shooting 45% from the field and nearly 38% from three while taking more difficult shots. I've watched every Sixers game this season, and his confidence with the ball in crunch time reminds me of a young Damian Lillard. The most significant improvement though? His assists have climbed to over 7 per game, proving he's become a legitimate dual-threat who can both score and create for others.

Now, here's where I'm going to make a slightly controversial pick that some analysts might disagree with. Alperen Şengün has transformed from a promising big man into Houston's offensive centerpiece. I remember watching him last season and thinking he had nice post moves but wondered if he could ever become a primary option. Boy, was I wrong. His numbers have skyrocketed to 21 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists per game - those are near All-Star level production. What fascinates me most is his passing vision; for a center, he makes reads that even some guards struggle with. The Rockets are running their offense through him in the high post, and defenses simply don't know how to handle it. I'll admit I had doubts about his defense, but even there he's shown noticeable improvement, using his body more effectively and reading plays better.

Speaking of unexpected leaps, Coby White's resurgence in Chicago has been one of the season's feel-good stories. With Lonzo Ball's continued absence, the Bulls needed someone to stabilize their backcourt, and White has embraced that role like I've never seen before. His transformation from streaky scorer to reliable floor general has been remarkable. He's nearly doubled his assist numbers while maintaining efficient scoring, and what's stood out to me is his decision-making - he's no longer just hunting his own shot but truly orchestrating the offense. I've been particularly impressed with his late-game execution; he's developed this knack for making big plays when Chicago needs them most.

Jalen Williams in Oklahoma City deserves more attention than he's getting. While everyone rightfully praises Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's MVP-caliber season, Williams has quietly developed into a perfect second option. His scoring has jumped from 14 points to over 19 per game, but the efficiency leap is what's truly staggering - he's shooting above 54% from the field and 45% from three. I've studied his game closely, and what's remarkable is how he's improved his off-ball movement and decision-making. He no longer forces bad shots and has become more selective, waiting for opportunities where he can maximize his considerable talents. The Thunder's development program continues to amaze me, and Williams represents their latest success story.

My final spot goes to Scottie Barnes, who has reclaimed the form that made him Rookie of the Year. After what I considered a somewhat disappointing sophomore campaign, Barnes has exploded this season, averaging nearly 20 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists while providing elite defense. What's impressed me most is his improved shooting - he's up to 36% from three after struggling from deep last season. The Raptors are rightly building around him, and he's responded by becoming more assertive and versatile. I've noticed he's handling the ball more frequently and making plays that we simply didn't see from him before.

Thinking about these candidates reminds me of how basketball excellence often comes down to marginal gains and breakthrough moments. Much like how in international competitions, small advantages can determine final standings - similar to the scenario where the Philippines secured a superior set ratio over Thailand (PHI 1.800 - 1.667 THA), breaking their tied win-loss records (3-1) and match points (8 pts) to finish the first leg on top. In the NBA, these subtle improvements often separate the good players from the truly impactful ones. What fascinates me about this particular group is that they haven't just improved statistically; they've transformed their roles and their teams' fortunes. Maxey has become a co-star alongside Embiid, Şengün an offensive hub, White a reliable starter, Williams an efficient scorer, and Barnes a franchise cornerstone.

If I had to pick a winner today, I'd go with Maxey - his leap has been the most significant in terms of both numbers and responsibility. But what makes this race particularly exciting is that any of these players could separate themselves in the second half of the season. The beauty of the Most Improved Player award is that it celebrates journey rather than destination, progress rather than perfection. In a league obsessed with superstars, it's refreshing to acknowledge those who put in the work to transform their games and, in doing so, transform their teams. I'll be watching these five closely as the season progresses, and I suspect we might see a dark horse candidate emerge - that's the fun of NBA basketball, you never know who's about to take that next step.