Chicago Bulls: Lonzo Ball has a shot at winning the NBA’s MIP award

Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball should be in the running to win the NBA’s Most Improved Player of the Year award. 

I understand that it’s too early to get into the hype of the Chicago Bulls. While preseason is still in play, the world will have to see what this team is made of once the regular season begins. But the biggest steal for Chicago this summer was acquiring Lonzo Ball in free agency. So far in the preseason, Ball is showing a preview of how he can impact the Bulls this season.

Ball has been one of the league’s tier talents who has received much criticism that may have not been deserved. After a productive season at UCLA, fans were waiting on how he could adjust to the NBA. Although Ball had his moments during his first few seasons with the Lakers, the majority of his tenure was a struggle.

Whether it was Ball losing confidence, not shooting the ball well, or even staying healthy, Ball’s beginnings didn’t go as planned. Due to his inconsistencies, he would be dealt to New Orleans after the 2018-19 season.

Going to New Orleans was a fresh start for Ball. It’s possible that playing in a smaller market allowed him to gain more confidence in his game. While in New Orleans, Ball worked with Fred Vinson, assistant coach for the Pelicans, to develop a better shot.

In his two seasons at New Orleans, Ball showed a tremendous new shot release and follow-through that was more consistent. During his two seasons with the Lakers, Ball shot 31 percent from three compared to 36 percent in New Orleans. As Ball continues his thrive as a better shooter, it leads to more confidence on the floor.

As Ball is now a member of the Chicago Bulls, he plays alongside great talents in Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, Nikola Vucevic, and plenty others. The expectations are high for the Bulls to become a playoff contender. The franchise hasn’t been anywhere near the playoffs since the departure of Jimmy Butler.

Once again, Ball will have the duties as the distributor for the team. With his awareness and basketball IQ, he will be able to help his team succeed. Also, while his scoring will be a plus, he can also build momentum by being aggressive in shooting the basketball.

Another area where Ball can set the tone for Chicago is defense. Last season, the Bulls were one of the worst defensive teams, ranking 14th in the NBA. As a player who is passionate on that end of the floor, Ball’s intensity could allow the Bulls to compete on defense as well. Ball continues to be one of the top on-ball defenders in the league. This upcoming season will be no different.

Although it is preseason, Ball shows great awareness and chemistry with the rest of his teammates. It’s certain that he has studied film and understands where each player will be on the floor. Ball has been running the show so far for Chicago. As he continues to remain assertive, Chicago has continued to thrive on the floor and dominate their opponents.

With all of the scrutiny that has surrounded Ball his first few seasons in the NBA, hopefully, this year will be a breakout season for him. In fact, he can have an opportunity to win the Most Improved Player award.

Ball understands with a new opportunity in Chicago that he can elevate his play. With the direction the Bulls are heading, it would be a terrible look to decline as a player. Expect Ball to show up huge for the Bulls. If this season is a success, the world may watch him win the award.