Daniels a finalist for two NBA awards

Atlanta Hawks wing Dyson Daniels has established himself as one of the best seasons for an Australian ever, being named as a finalist for both the Defensive Player of the Year and Most Improved Player awards for the 2024-25 regular season.

The Australian, who led the league with an impressive 229 steals, has quickly developed into one of the most disruptive defensive forces in the NBA after being acquired from the New Orleans Pelicans last off-season.

Defensive Player Of The Year

Daniels' defensive prowess was on full display throughout the 2024-25 campaign, where his quick hands and exceptional court awareness allowed him to consistently disrupt opposing offences. His league-leading 229 steals demonstrated not only his defensive instincts but also his ability to transform defence into offensive opportunities for the Hawks.

The young Australian's versatility allows him to guard multiple positions effectively, making him a valuable asset in Atlanta's rotation. His ability to read passing lanes, anticipate offensive movements, and maintain disciplined positioning contributed significantly to the Hawks' defensive schemes.

Rounding out the finalist trio is Cleveland's Evan Mobley and Golden State's Draymond Green, both of whom were also finalists for the Defensive Player of the Year award.

Mobley, who earned his first All-Star selection and likely his first All-NBA nod this season, put together an outstanding campaign averaging 18.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game.

Green, who lobbied heavily in the media for his consideration, continued to demonstrate his defensive intelligence and versatility for the Warriors, particularly after the team's acquisition of Jimmy Butler at the trade deadline. The former Defensive Player of the Year finished with at least one block and one steal per game for the seventh time in his career, highlighting his consistent defensive presence.

Most Improved Player

While Daniels' defensive excellence earned him the Defensive Player of the Year nomination, his overall development throughout the 2024-25 season was equally impressive, leading to his recognition as a candidate to be the NBA's Most Improved Player.

After being included in the Dejounte Murray trade last off-season, Daniels seized the opportunity for increased responsibility with the Hawks. He significantly expanded his role, stepping into the starting two-guard alongside fan favourite Trae Young left vacant by the departing Dejounte Murray.

Daniels, from Ballarat in country Victoria, showed marked improvement in his offensive game, becoming a more confident scorer and playmaker while maintaining his defensive intensity alongside his increased playing time. His ability to contribute consistently on both ends of the floor represented a significant leap from his previous role with the Pelicans.

Daniels' development curve might yet prove steeper than his fellow Most Improved Player finalists, Detroit's Cade Cunningham and LA's Ivica Zubac, both of whom had outstanding seasons in their own right.

Cunningham, who made his first All-Star team this season, put together an impressive campaign for the Pistons, averaging 26.1 points, 9.1 assists, and 6.1 rebounds per game. His evolution into one of the league's premier young guards demonstrated significant year-over-year improvement.

Zubac established himself as a reliable force in the middle for the Clippers, setting career highs in virtually every statistical category, including points (16.8) and rebounds (12.6). His development into a consistent double-double threat showed remarkable growth from previous seasons.

The NBA will announce the award winners during the Playoffs and Finals series.

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All 2025 finalists

Defensive Player of the Year

Dyson Daniels, Atlanta Hawks
Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors
Evan Mobley, Cleveland Cavaliers

Most Improved Player

Dyson Daniels, Atlanta Hawks
Ivica Zubac, Los Angeles Clippers
Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons

MVP

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder
Nikola Jokić, Denver Nuggets
Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks

‍Coach of the Year

Kenny Atkinson, Cleveland Cavaliers
J.B. Bickerstaff, Detroit Pistons
Ime Udoka, Houston Rockets

Rookie of the Year

Zaccharie Risacher, Atlanta Hawks
Stephon Castle, San Antonio Spurs
Jaylen Wells, Memphis Grizzlies

Sixth Man of the Year

Payton Pritchard, Boston Celtics
Ty Jerome, Cleveland Cavaliers
Malik Beasley, Detroit Pistons

Clutch Player of the Year

Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks
Nikola Jokić, Denver Nuggets
Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves

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