NBA: 5 dark horse candidates for Most Improved Player in 2021-22
By Dalton Sell
Jordan Nwora could be a dark horse candidate for 2021-22 NBA M.I.P.
Not too many casual NBA fans will know too much about Jordan Nwora, and understandably so. The forward was buried on the bench of the Milwaukee Bucks throughout his rookie season and hardly played throughout the team’s triumphant title-winning campaign. While his playing time was scarce, he showed potential consistently whenever he hit the floor, and it looks like Nwora is destined for a more prominent role with the defending champions in 2021-22.
Nwora had been fantastic for the Bucks in the preseason by averaging 17.8 points while shooting 44.3 percent from the floor and a red-hot 41.2 percent from deep. Scoring has always been Nwora’s bread and butter, and he was often viewed as a one-dimensional player. However, he has looked more well-rounded during this preseason with his facilitating, defense, and overall performance. Nwora could be a legitimate rotational piece for the Bucks this coming season, and if he can build off his impressive preseason, he could sneak his way into the Most Improved Player conversation.
During his rookie season, Nwora averaged just 5.7 points, two rebounds, and 0.2 assists while playing 9.1 minutes per game. He was efficient on the offensive end by shooting 45.9 percent from the floor and 45.2 percent from deep. With more playing time, the forward could showcase his high-octane offense more consistently and increase those scoring averages tremendously. This is a player that could average double figures on a nightly basis, and improvement like that would undeniably catch some attention.
The biggest question is just how big of a role Nwora will play for the Bucks. His preseason play has likely increased his stock within the organization, but he will have to prove that he can hold up on the defensive end for a team that prides itself on that side as the Bucks do. If he can take that next step, the former second-round pick could end up being a hidden gem, helping the rich get richer as they look to defend their title in 2021-22. Playing alongside stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton will make it hard for Nwora to command the spotlight, but there is legit reason to believe that he could be poised for a breakout season.