It wasn't Wembley, SGA, Ant-Man either. NBA's best MIP this season, Cleveland's top big man

Oct 08, 2024

It wasn't Wembley, SGA, Ant-Man either. NBA's best MIP this season, Cleveland's top big man
FILE - Cleveland Cavaliers forward Evan Mobley (4) drives against Orlando Magic forward Jonathan Isaac during the first half of Game 2 of an NBA basketball first-round playoff series, April 22, 2024, in Cleveland. Mobley has agreed to a five-year, $224 million contract extension with Cleveland, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press on Saturday, July 20. (AP Photo/Ron Schwane, File)
Who will be the most unexpected NBA players this season,

Three newcomers are in the spotlight in the NBA. San Antonio Spurs Victor Wembanyama, Oklahoma City Thunder Shai Gilgers-Alexander and Minnesota Timberwolves Anthony Edwards.

However, the three players have already definitely moved up to the All-Star level last season. Gilzer-Alexander has performed well enough to be selected for the NBA's first team, and Anthony Edwards is also the league's top ball handler and scorer.

Wembanyama is a monster. As a rookie last season, his defense proved to be the best in the league. Now it's the season to be a strong influence in offense and defense. Chris Paul has been selected as a partner.

In other words, even if the three players perform strongly this season, it is not an exceptional situation. This is the expected step. Rather, sluggishness can be an issue.

ESPN on the 8th (Korea time) '11 players who can achieve the biggest growth this season'

First place is Cleveland Cavaliers Evan Mobley. He is a strong big man and has high height and speed.

The defense is already at the top of the league, but it has not been proven in attack. The outlet said 'Mobli could draw with Wembley in defense. He is a player with excellent defensive talent. Because they play team basketball, there is a lack of impact aggressively. However, this season, Cleveland will be able to work with main ball handlers Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland Mobley. Mobley will be able to grow significantly.

Second place is the ace of the German national team, and two-option Franz Wagner of the Orlando Magic. Orlando is reaping the fruits of its rebuild with 47 wins last season. The key is Wagner.

It's a powerful rookie one-two punch with Paolo Banchero.



sfryu@sportschosun.com