Spurs: Keldon Johnson has ‘Most Improved Player’ written all over him

San Antonio Spurs: Keldon Johnson is filling the leadership void and leading by example.

Recognizing that it was up to him to fill the leadership role Murray vacated, Johnson has already shown significant growth as a leader on a team that features several rookies and young players who need someone to guide them. Johnson quickly became an encouraging and motivating voice for the Spurs. As the season goes on and Johnson becomes more comfortable in his new role, he will continue to grow as a leader and player with every game on the schedule.

The Spurs now have greater depth at the four after drafting Jeremy Sochan, allowing Johnson to move to his more natural small forward position instead of manning the power forward spot. In preparation for this new challenge, Johnson slimmed down quite a bit over the offseason while maintaining the strength and physicality for which he is known. This way, he will be able to better guard quicker ballhandlers on the wing.

Last season, while guarding bigger players, Johnson already showed important defensive growth by becoming more aware and better at anticipating what his opponent will do. There is still room to grow, but he is on the right path and should continue to show improvement over the course of the season.

Paired with his expanding offensive game, these defensive improvements make Johnson an aggressive two-way wing who will probably lead his team in scoring and be a strong candidate for the Most Improved Player award.