The next NBA award to be released will be Most Improved Player. According to ESPN.com’s Marc Stein, that award isn’t up for grabs. Per Stein, Bulls shooting guard, who was named to the All-Star this season, is a lock for this award.
From Stein’s Twitter:
Story going online now: ESPN sources say Chicago’s Jimmy Butler will be named NBA’s Most Improved Player later this week
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) May 6, 2015
This shouldn’t come as a surprise, as Butler’s been the leading candidate for MIP pretty much all year long. Butler is certainly well-deserving of this award. He’s flat-out improved more than any other player in the NBA. He’s raised his points per game from 13.1 to 20 from last season to this one, and his assisting and rebounding numbers have increased as well. His shooting numbers have dramatically soared from last year. Butler has been like a completely different player offensively this season, and his case for this award is justified. Stein also tweeted out when the award ceremony will likely take place.
Jimmy Butler & Bulls obviously have more pressing issues right now but natural spot for Butler’s MIP ceremony is before Game 3 at home FRI
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) May 6, 2015
This does seem to be a good time to have the ceremony, as the Bulls will be at home in front of their fans.
Game 3 between the Bulls and the Cleveland Cavaliers will tip off at 8 pm ET, and can be viewed on ESPN.
