Deandre Ayton
Deandre Ayton looks poised to become one of the NBA’s best big men. Ayton averaged 18.3 points and 11.5 rebounds per game last year, and really started to show what he is capable of doing in the bubble. The addition of Chris Paul will be instrumental in the success of Ayton, as he always seems to get the best out of his big men. I expect Ayton to average over 20 points per game this year while also improving his shot blocking to over 2 per game. Ayton has the potential to make his first ever all star and All NBA teams, and could play a major role on the Suns making the playoffs for the first time in over a decade.
2. Zion Williamson
The pelicans announced that Zion will start the 2021 with no restrictions. His per 36 minute averages as a rookie were an incredible 29 points and 8.1 boards per game, giving a glimpse into the production he is capable of producing this upcoming season. Although he was extremely impressive as a rookie, he only played 24 games and he had minute restrictions in all of them. He came into the preseason this year looking great, averaging 29 points over his 2 games. Zion is in the rare category of being a potential most improved and a potential MVP candidate.
3. Michael Porter Jr
Michael Porter looks ready to become the third star the Nuggets need. Porters playing time last season was very inconsistent due to injuries, but he really proved himself in the bubble. He was named to the All-Seeding Games second team after averaging 22.0 points, 8.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists. Michael Porter has the potential to be a 20 point per game scorer on a very good team, which would put him in top contention for most improved.
4. Coby White
Coby White started playing his best basketball right before the season’s shut down in March. He struggled to start the season, but emerged as a completely different player come February. Prior to the all star break he averaged 11ppg on 37% shooting, in the 10 games after the break he averaged 24.7 points per game on 47% shooting. He finally earned the starting point guard spot, but the season went on hiatus the next day. Coby looks to be the starting point guard coming into the season and has the potential for big scoring numbers.
5. OG Anunoby
OG Anunoby was a critical reason why the Raptors were so successful last season, despite losing Kawhi Leonard. He is a lockdown perimeter defender and started to show improvements offensively as the season progressed. OG didn't have a major role in the offense last season and 90% of his shot attempts came from behind the 3 point line or at the rim. This season they should give OG a little freedom to become a driver and shot creator. If OG can get his scoring average to around 16 per game while continuing to be one of the best perimeter defenders in the league, he has a good shot at the most improved player award.