10. Christian Wood
If it weren’t for injury and the emergence of Julius Randle, Christian Wood of the Houston Rockets would probably be the favorite to win the Most Improved Player award. Wood still needs to improve his physical interior defense, but he’s been a bright spot for the rebuilding Rockets.
9. Kristaps Porzingis
It’s been hard for Kristaps Porzingis to stay healthy this year. However, when he has been healthy he has been an elite two-way center for the Dallas Mavericks. If he can stay healthy, then he and Luka Doncic will one of the best duo’s in the league, but that’s becoming a big if moving forward.
8. Clint Capela
Clint Capela has anchored the Atlanta Hawks defensive this year and is one of the best rebounders, defenders, shot blockers, screeners, and lob threats in the NBA. Outside of offensive rebounding and catching lobs, he doesn’t have a legit offensive game.
7. Domantas Sabonis
It’s hard to imagine an All-Star like Domantas Sabonis improving offensive this season, but that’s exactly what he has done. He’s developed into a very good playmaker at the center position. The only knock against Sabonis is that he’s not an above average defender at this position and the Indiana Pacers play him out of position at power forward when Myles Turner is healthy.
6. Nikola Vucevic
Nikola Vucevicing being traded to the Chicago Bulls was the biggest move at the trade deadline. He’s an elite scorer at all three levels for a big man, along with the fact he’s a great rebounder and solid playmaker. He’s a solid interior defender, but he’s not that mobile which hurts his overall defense.