NBA Awards: Who’s Most Likely to Become the 2025/26 NBA Most Improved Player?

Overview of the Event

The NBA Most Improved Player (MIP) Award recognizes the player who shows the greatest year-to-year leap in performance during the regular season. Traditionally, the award highlights rising stars who elevate their scoring output, usage, efficiency, and overall impact as they transition from role players into core contributors.

Historical trends show that MIP winners often:
• See major increases in minutes and offensive responsibility
• Move into featured roles (starter → star)
• Deliver significant jumps in scoring and efficiency
• Play for competitive teams where improvement impacts winning

For bettors, the MIP market focuses on players poised for a breakthrough — young talents entering new roles, former high draft picks finding consistency, or players on teams undergoing system changes that boost usage.

Recent Winner & Context

The most recent MIP winner (2024/25 season) earned the award through a dramatic leap in scoring, efficiency, and two-way impact. In recent years, winners like Tyrese Maxey, Lauri Markkanen, and Ja Morant demonstrate a clear pattern: elite jumps in offensive production paired with increased responsibility.

Entering the 2025/26 season, several young players are positioned for major statistical leaps as teams rely more heavily on developing talents and evolving rotations.

Contenders to Watch

🏀 Jalen Williams – Oklahoma City Thunder
• Rising all-around wing with growing offensive role
• OKC’s upward trajectory amplifies his breakout path
• Strong efficiency + usage jump makes him a top candidate

🏀 Scottie Barnes – Toronto Raptors
• Versatile forward set for primary scoring duties
• Expected to see a major bump in minutes and shot creation
• Defensive impact + offensive leap strengthens his MIP case

🏀 Cam Thomas – Brooklyn Nets
• Elite bucket-getter who could become a full-time starter
• High-volume scoring profile fits classic MIP trajectories
• If efficiency improves, his candidacy skyrockets

🏀 Tyrese Maxey – Philadelphia 76ers (if eligible by criteria)
• Already a breakout performer but still capable of larger leaps
• Increased usage role could fuel another major statistical jump
• Team success strengthens award visibility

🏀 Alperen Şengün – Houston Rockets
• Skilled big man with expanding offensive responsibilities
• Potential triple-double threat with high usage
• Houston’s system favors his development and visibility

🏀 Keegan Murray – Sacramento Kings
• Versatile shooter/scorer stepping into a bigger role
• Kings’ offense gives him consistent opportunities
• If his scoring average jumps significantly, he becomes a real threat

Key Factors to Consider

• Usage Increase: Higher shot attempts, touches, and ball-handling duties often define winners.
• Team Improvement: Players driving team success gain narrative strength.
• Efficiency Jump: Enhanced shooting percentages and playmaking elevate candidacies.
• Minutes Surge: MIP winners typically receive larger roles and extended playing time.
• Narrative Momentum: Media attention, highlight performances, and month-to-month consistency matter.
• Clear Role Change: Moving from role player to centerpiece is the strongest predictor.

Quick Summary

Event: NBA 2025/26 — Most Improved Player (MIP)
Award Type: Regular Season
Betting Focus: Usage increase, scoring leap, team relevance, narrative momentum
Ideal MIP Profiles: Young breakout stars, newly featured scorers, players moving into expanded roles