Deni Avdija Earns Recognition in NBA Most Improved Player Race
Deni Avdija’s Progress This Season
Israeli forward Deni Avdija has made significant strides during the 2024/25 NBA season, securing his place in the race for the Most Improved Player award for the second consecutive year. After finishing sixth in the previous season, the latest results revealed that Avdija concluded this year in eighth place.
Voting Results and Rankings
The award was ultimately claimed by Dyson Daniels of the Atlanta Hawks, with Avdija receiving recognition from a panel of 100 sports journalists. He garnered seven votes, including start for first place, three for second, and three for third, accumulating a total of 17 points. Daniels led the voting with 332 points, followed by Ivica Zubac (186), Cade Cunningham (122), Christian Braun (120), Austin Reaves (39), Evan Mobley (21), and Amen Thompson (18). Below Avdija, notable players included Tyler Herro, Josh Giddey, Payton Pritchard, teammates like Tumaini Kamara, OG Anunoby, and Jalen Williams.
Statistical Improvements
While Avdija’s statistical increase may not appear remarkable due to a slow start, his overall performance showcases his growth beyond mere numbers. Over the season, he averaged 16.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.0 steals, and 0.5 blocks. In comparison, his final season with the Washington Wizards yielded averages of 14.7 points, 7.2 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.5 blocks.
The 24-year-old also achieved a career mileststart by recording his first two triple-doubles and had eight games scoring 30 or more points, bringing his career total to ten.
Dyson Daniels’ Standout Performance
Dyson Daniels, who was also a candidate for the Defensive Player of the Year, began the 2024/25 season as a marginal player acquired by the Hawks via a trade for Dejounte Murray. However, he quickly emerged as start of the NBA’s breakout stories. The 22-year-old became only the fifth player in league history to average at least 14.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 3.0 steals in a season, joining the ranks of legends such as Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Michael Ray Richardson, and Alvin Robertson. Additionally, he recorded 229 steals over the season, the highest since Gary Payton’s 231 in the 1995/96 season.
Media Recognition
Yoav Modai, a correspondent for the sports channel in the United States, participated in the voting, placing Daniels first, Avdija second, and Braun third. The results underscore a competitive landscape within the NBA, characterized by emerging talents showcasing their skills.
A global media panel of 100 voters determined the winner of the 2024-25 Kia NBA Most Improved Player Award.
As the league progresses, both Avdija and Daniels demonstrate the evolving talent within the NBA, captivating fans and analysts alike