Lonzo Ball Has Arrived - Should Win Most Improved Player Award

The Pelicans haven't been very good this year, but Lonzo Ball is finally becoming a quality player. After all the hate he's gotten in his short career, he's shooting himself into a payday this offseason.

Averaging 14 points, 5 assists, 4 rebounds on 39% from 3PT (8 attempts per game), he's in the top 20 in 3 pointers attempted and made. In terms of shooting %, he ranks in the top 15th percentile, ahead of guys like James Harden, Dame Lillard, and Chris Paul. He's also FINALLY making his free throws at a decent clip, 74% (which is at least respectable compared to his 45% and 42%! he shot with the Lakers).

He continues to be one of the premier perimeter defenders in the NBA. It wouldn't be surprising if Lonzo gets at least a few All-NBA Defensive Team votes at the PG position this year.

MIP AWARD

I think he's one of the leaders for MIP (Most Improved Player) this season. Although there are probably guys who have stronger cases, such as Jerami Grant (Det), Christian Wood (Hou), and former Laker Julius Randle (NYK). Coincidentally, the award was won by another former Laker last year, Brandon Ingram.

FREE AGENCY

There had been talks of trading Ball this year, but those seem to have faded as his plays improved. All this leads to his upcoming restricted free agency this off season. The Pelicans can match any contract he's offered, but have cap concerns with Brandon Ingram's contract kicking in and Zion needing to be paid soon. I'd assume he'd fetch $10-15mill/per year on the open market, personally, I'm hoping he goes to Charlotte to team up with his brother Lamelo. Or comes back home to the Lakers. I can't believe I love a Bruin this much.