Suns Nominate Early Candidate for Most Improved Player Award
Collin Gillespie of the Phoenix Suns has emerged as a standout player this season, drawing attention for his impressive performance. The guard has nearly doubled his scoring average, moving from 6 points per game last season to 11 this year, while maintaining remarkable efficiency.
Suns Candidate for Most Improved Player Award
Gillespie’s ascent in the NBA makes him a strong contender for the Most Improved Player Award this season. His scoring has surged alongside his playmaking duties, where he has raised his assists from 2.4 to 5.7 per game.
Key Statistics
- Current Points per Game: 11
- Previous Points per Game: 6
- Assists This Season: 5.7
- Assists Last Season: 2.4
- Shooting Percentage: 43% from the field
- Three-Point Shooting Percentage: 40.5%
- Turnovers per Game: 1.3
- Steals per Game: 1.3
One of the standout features of Gillespie’s game is his consistent shooting. He continues to achieve a field goal percentage of 43%, which indicates that he is not relying on luck to boost his numbers. This is particularly impressive given that around 75% of his attempts are from beyond the arc.
Improved Playmaking and Defense
Beyond scoring, Gillespie has demonstrated growth in playmaking, particularly in running the pick-and-roll effectively. His recent performance in Utah, where he recorded 13 assists, highlights his capability to create opportunities for teammates, especially for the Suns’ center rotation.
Gillespie’s defensive skills are noteworthy as well. Despite his smaller stature, he effectively positions himself to disrupt plays, contributing 1.3 steals per game. His defensive efforts not only create transition chances for the Suns but also hinder opposing offenses.
Conclusion
The Phoenix Suns may not anticipate a large presence at the NBA Awards this season, but Gillespie’s name is certainly notable. His journey from an unheralded player to a critical role player exemplifies the essence of the Most Improved Player Award. As he continues to refine his strengths, Gillespie showcases promise for sustained success within the league.
