NBA Most Improved Player of the Year: Austin Reaves, Los Angeles Lakers
After coming onto the scene for the Los Angeles Lakers during the latter portion of last season and carrying that momentum into the offseason in which he impressed during his time with USA Basketball in the FIBA World Cup, there’s a growing belief around the league that Austin Reaves could be on the verge of a monster season. So much so that it wouldn’t be all that surprising if Reaves ended up winning the NBA’s Most Improved Player of the Year award this season.
Reaves is going to take a bigger responsibility on the offensive end this season and will need to help carry some of the regular-season load with an aging LeBron James and a fragile Anthony Davis. Playing for the Lakers and their popularity, it also wouldn’t be surprising if Reaves is in the conversation to be an All-Star this year.
Again, I don’t think that Reaves is going to average 20 points per game but he could get close. He’s going to have the green light on the offensive end and he’s proven that he can deliver when given the opportunity.