NBA 2015-16: Top 5 early contenders for the Most Improved Player Award

#4 Hassan Whiteside

Hassan Whiteside has been a revelation for the Miami Heat.

Through 18 games of the young 2015-16 NBA season, Hassan Whiteside has recorded 82 blocks, which is more than what six teams as a whole have recorded so far. That is a Stephen Curry-type stat. Whiteside’s presence in the paint has been a huge reason for the Miami Heat’s defense to be ranked second best in defensive efficiency.

The Heat have found a gem and defensive cornerstone in Whiteside, one they should and could use more as an offensive option as well. Whiteside as a 7-foot center lacks a fundamental post game but is among the most agile centers of the league, which helps him make east meat of lobs from his teammates. His incredible wingspan of 7’7” also allows him to drop a non-contested hook once in a while.

He has literally had to earn his time in the NBA. For close to four years he toiled in the NBA D-League, leagues in LeBanon and China before he could prove his roster spot on an NBA team.

His rise to stardom came late last season when he recorded a triple-double in points, rebounds and blocks in a Heat win over the Chicago Bulls. Since then the spotlight has been on him and with increased playing, his averages have gone up slightly. Surely once the Heat include him more in their offensive set, his offensive numbers will also shine making him a legit contender for the award.

Here’s a more recent triple double recorded by Whiteside against the Minnesota Timberwolves: