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NBA: Dark horse candidates for 2018-19 awards

By Jacob Doole

NBA Indiana Pacers Victor Oladipo (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
NBA Indiana Pacers Victor Oladipo (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /
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NEW YORK, NY – NOVEMBER 11: Buddy Hield #24 of the Sacramento Kings reacts in the second half against the New York Knicks during their game at Madison Square Garden on November 11, 2017 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY – NOVEMBER 11: Buddy Hield #24 of the Sacramento Kings reacts in the second half against the New York Knicks during their game at Madison Square Garden on November 11, 2017 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

Most Improved Player

Buddy Hield, Sacramento Kings

Buddy Hield’s short career to date has been tarnished by unrealistic expectations. He can thank Sacramento Kings owner Vivek Ranadive for that– after the Kings traded DeMarcus Cousins for Hield and spare parts, Ranadive’s valuation of him caused quite a stir.

It’s become clear since that Hield is not, and will never be, Steph Curry. Having said that, he’s been a hell of a lot better than most people give him credit for.

If someone asked you who was 17th all-time in 3-point percentage, who would your first guess be? How about if they asked who was ninth in 3-point percentage last year? Or top 20 in made 3’s for the season?

The answer to all of the above is, of course, Buddy Hield. And with Sacramento’s roster somehow more confusing than ever heading into the new season, Hield is one of the few known quantities.

He came off the bench for most of last year, starting in just 12 of his 80 appearances. But with Garrett Temple and George Hill now gone and a lack of reliable perimeter threats, Hield should find himself in the starting lineup, or at least with significantly more minutes.

A core group featuring De’Aaron Fox, Hield and Bogdanovic could make the Kings a watchable team next season. Hield should be the focal point of that, and if he can maintain his efficiency from last season, his numbers and impact should rise accordingly.

Someone will have to score for the Kings, and Hield will be first in line to start getting buckets once the new season is underway. Big scoring jumps are what win this award, and Hield is a chance to take a major leap.

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