Lonzo Ball has taken a clear step forward this season. His large step forward in play since returning from his injury in December has been a huge reason why the Pelicans have found themselves back in the playoff race.
Despite his improved play, though, Ball has not been mentioned as a viable candidate for Most Improved Player this season. After Friday’s win over the Portland Trail Blazers, Nancy Lieberman took her chance on Fox Sports New Orleans’ postgame show to make the case for Ball as a Most Improved Player candidate.
“I have to tell you, if Lonzo Ball…is not up for Most Improved Player in the NBA this year, then apparently nobody has cable. This guy is unbelievable. They’re running pindowns and bringing him off pindowns so he can catch and shoot. It’s not just feet set now. He’s worked so hard at his craft.”
Ball is putting up career-best numbers across the board this season. He’s already played more games than he did his rookie season and is averaging 11.8 points, a career-high number. His 6.0 rebounds and 6.8 assists per game both are second-best in his career while his 36.7% three-point shooting is by far his best average.
The irony, though, is that while Ball’s improvement has been notable this season, it’s his teammate Brandon Ingram that figures to be one of the favorites for Most Improved Player this year. After struggling in Los Angeles for multiple seasons, Ingram has blossomed in New Orleans this year as an All-Star and is a large reason why the Pelicans remained afloat before Zion Williamson.
Ball will likely get some acknowledgment for his improvement this season and not winning the Most Improved Player award doesn’t mean his improvement hasn’t been great. He’s taken a step forward in his progression this year and Pelicans are better because of him.
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