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Written by: E. George
Published May 5, 2025 @ 8:25 AM ET
Atlanta guard Dyson Daniels has been named the NBA’s Most Improved Player, capping off a standout season defined by dramatic growth on both ends of the court. In his first year with the Hawks, Daniels elevated his game to new heights, setting personal bests across every major statistical category.
The 22-year-old averaged 14.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game, all career highs. Most notably, he led the league with 3.0 steals per contest, the highest mark in over three decades, finishing the season with 229 total steals — the most since 1996.
Daniels secured the award with a convincing margin in voting, receiving 44 first-place votes and 332 points from a panel of 100 media members. Ivica Zubac of the Los Angeles Clippers and Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons were the other finalists, finishing second and third, respectively.
After being traded from New Orleans in a high-profile offseason move, Daniels emerged as a key starter for Atlanta. The deal, which also included Larry Nance Jr., Cody Zeller, and future draft assets, sent guard Dejounte Murray to the Pelicans. While the Hawks missed the playoffs following a 40-42 finish and early exit in the play-in tournament, Daniels’ emergence was a major bright spot.
Previously known for his defensive presence, Daniels expanded his offensive role in Atlanta. His field goal percentage rose to 49.3%, up from 43.5% during his first two seasons in New Orleans, and he became a consistent scoring complement to All-Star guard Trae Young. Standing at 6-foot-7, his versatility and improved offensive production gave the Hawks a dynamic two-way presence in the backcourt.
Daniels became just the fifth player since 1973-74 to average at least 14 points, five rebounds, four assists, and three steals in a single season — joining a historic list that includes Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan.
Despite Atlanta’s underwhelming finish and the subsequent dismissal of general manager Landry Fields, Daniels’ development signals optimism for the franchise’s future. His contributions also made him a finalist for the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year award, where he finished second behind Cleveland’s Evan Mobley.
The Most Improved Player recognition adds Daniels to a shortlist in franchise history. He is the second Hawk to earn the honor, following Alan Henderson in the 1997-98 season.
This award is one of several determined by global media voting conducted at the end of the regular season. Other winners this year include San Antonio’s Stephon Castle for Rookie of the Year, New York’s Jalen Brunson for Clutch Player of the Year, Cleveland’s Evan Mobley for Defensive Player of the Year, and Boston’s Payton Pritchard for Sixth Man of the Year. The MVP and other honors are set to be announced later in the postseason.