There are many candidates in the early going for ‘Most Improved Player’ (MIP) of the year from across the NBA. The competition for this award is always very tight and focuses on the growth from previous seasons. With past winners of the George Mikan trophy, we’ve seen an increase of at least 5 PPG over the winner’s previous season.

MIP rankings are beginning to take shape, with a handful of players that have made big impacts with their teams, especially due to some expanded roles. Here’s a few that we’ve been keeping our eye on.

#1 SF/PF Franz Wagner – Orlando Magic

Wagner is making some serious waves as one of the NBA’s most versatile players. It feels like Franz will be able to give out at least 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists on a nightly basis. Offensively skilled and defensively sharp, Orlando’s defensive rating is better with him on the floor. The only other team with a better defensive rating than Orlando is Oklahoma City. His averages are only improving year by year, making him a prime contender for this award.

Paolo Banchero’s absence (torn right oblique) has provided Wagner with an opportunity to showcase his playmaking ability. Banchero’s return will likely reduce Wagner’s usage, but will still allow for many off-ball opportunities. 

#2 SF/PF/C Jalen Williams – Oklahoma City Thunder

Williams is back at it again, making a strong case this season with significant growth across the board. We’ve seen an uptick in PPG, RPG, APG, SPG and BPG. With Chet Holmgren sidelined due to injury, Williams’ role has expanded even further. He’s now Oklahoma City’s second-best player behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who has his eyes set on earning his first MVP award this season. Earning an All-Star spot would help William’s case.

#3 SG/SF RJ Barrett – Toronto Raptors 

It’s kind of a long shot but RJ Barrett has been making his bid so far for MIP. Barrett has been a different player since joining the Raptors. He’s averaging 23 PPG, 6.5 RPG and 6 APG this season. Those numbers are very similar to last year’s stats, as he played 32 games with the Raptors after being traded from the Knicks.

Call it hometown momentum or just playing a more complete, efficient game, Barrett has been attacking the basket more frequently, he’s been leading the Raptors squad in their efforts for an ‘ethical tank’. We’ve seen the return of Scottie Barnes impact RJ’s usage and we may see this continue, especially after Immanuel Quickley returns as well.