NBA Awards Watch Quarter One: Where we stand after Thanksgiving

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - NOVEMBER 14: Draymond Green #23 and Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors look on against the Charlotte Hornets during their game at Spectrum Center on November 14, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) /

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NBA Awards Watch: Most Improved Player, Quarter One – Miles Bridges

Honorable Mentions: Ja Morant, Dejounte Murray

As part of one of the most enjoyable teams to watch on League Pass this season, Miles Bridges continues to evolve into the perfect partner for the reigning Rookie of the Year.

Last year, as he was still finding himself and the partnership with LaMelo Ball was developing, Bridges averaged 12.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 0.7 steals per game. This season, on reasonably increased volume, he is averaging 20.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. He looks like an All-Star on the rise.

Ja Morant has been truly astounding though. He is averaging more points (24.3), rebounds (5.3), and steals (1.6) per game than ever before. His shooting from distance has taken a leap as well, improving from 30.3 percent on 3.8 attempts to 35.6 percent on 4.6 attempts per game. This was the step he needed to take. However, his assists have dipped slightly (7.4 to 6.8, a career-low), opening the door for Bridges.

Finally, Dejounte Murray is flying under the radar due to the fact that the San Antonio Spurs are losing a lot of games. However, his statistical output this season has undergone a notable improvement.

He is averaging career-highs across the board, with a line of 18.9 points, 8.4 rebounds, 8.1 assists, and 2.1 steals per game. It is worth keeping an eye on the Spurs for a number of prospects, with Murray currently being the chief among them.