5 Early Contenders for the Most Improved Player Award 

#1 Kristaps Porzingis - New York Knicks

Kristaps Porzingis

The first place player on this list shouldn't come as a shock to many fans out there. Kristaps Porzingis has been on fire to start the NBA season this year averaging 29.5 ppg, up 11 points from his average of 17.2 ppg during the 2016-2017 season. His improvement can be likened to the season Giannis Antetokounmpo had last year, with both players drastically improving their statistics while proving their leadership by translating statistical dominance into wins.

However, the roster surrounding Porzingis is far worse than the team Giannis had last year, making the Knicks winning start even more impressive. With Porzingis given the keys to the franchise this off-season there has been a change in the mentality of the Knicks, from perpetual bottom feeders to playoff hopefuls. In a season where so many peoples have elevated their game, Porzingis has elevated even higher. Look for a playoff berth for the Knicks as an indicator that Porzingis will win the MIP because if he keeps these numbers up the award his definitely his.