NBA 2013-14: Lance Stephenson so far top candidate for Most Improved Player award
Lance Stephenson – One of the most improved players of this NBA season.
Lance Stephenson’s performance this season so far will leave many surprised when they hear that he has been a regular starter for the Indiana Pacers for just over a year.
Drafted in the second round of the 2010 NBA Draft as 40th pick by then president of basketball operations for the Pacers Larry Bird, nobody gave much attention to this kid from University of Cincinnati. Post his first season at the starting shooting guard position here is what he had to say.
“I always knew I was talented,” Stephenson said. “I just needed the opportunity and confidence, just playing in a game, getting used to my teammates and getting used to the flow of the game. I always knew I could definitely play in an NBA type of game.”
Stephenson’s growth into an important role for the Pacers has shocked one and all but as come as a happy surprise to the Pacers’ management and fans. Although he earned the name with his play last season, calling NBA’s Ultimate X-Factor would be insulting to this season consistent performance.
He is the top candidate for Most Improved Player award this season and the reasons do not need any head scratching but here they are:
Offensive Effectiveness
Stephenson is a nightmare matchup for one on one defenders and has an unbelievable ability to finish strongly at the rim.
His scoring average has improved from 8.8 to a career high of 12.1, rebounding average has gone up by 2.3 to a career high of 6.2 and he averages career high 4.9 dimes per game. 3 of the 12 triple doubles recorded in the NBA this season are credited to his name, the only player with multiple triple doubles.
While Roy Hibbert mans the paint and Paul George attracts all the MVP talk, it’s the Stephenson who makes the Pacers click with his all-round performance.
Despite having more attempts at the basket than previous season, he is shooting career high percentages of 46.5 and 37.5 from the field and long range respectively.
At his size his impressive ball handling ability reduces the playmaking load of team superstar George and also hands point guard George Hill, a career 37.5 three point shooter, more spot up opportunities.
Here s a recap of Stephenson’s triple double against the Memphis Grizzlies.