Australian basketball player Dyson Daniels has been recognized as the NBA's most improved player. He plays for the Atlanta Hawks.
Daniels secured the award, surpassing fellow finalists Ivica Zubac of the Los Angeles Clippers and Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons. The 22-year-old became a key starter at shooting guard for the Hawks following a trade that brought him to Atlanta.
Before the trade, Daniels was primarily known for his defensive abilities. Opportunities arose due to injuries and other team changes, allowing the 6-foot-7 player to excel as a scoring partner to Trae Young, while also contributing significantly across the board.
Daniels, who hails from Bendigo, is now a crucial player for the Hawks, alongside Young, forward Jalen Johnson, and the 2024 number one overall NBA draft pick, Zaccharie Risacher. He led the NBA with 229 steals, the highest total since the 1995/96 season.
Daniels also finished as the runner-up for the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award. His nickname, "Great Barrier Thief," reflects his Australian heritage and defensive skills. His improvements in scoring, defense, rebounding, and playmaking earned him the most improved player title.
Daniels' role as a starter alongside Young in Atlanta's backcourt led to significant statistical improvements. His scoring increased from 5.8 points per game to 14.1. His rebounds rose from 3.9 to 5.9, steals from 1.4 to 3.0, and assists from 2.7 to 4.4.
Daniels joined an exclusive group of players since the 1973/74 season, averaging at least 14.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 3.0 steals. The award was determined by a global panel of writers and broadcasters who cover the league.
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