Josh Giddey, Jalen Williams Appear as ESPN Most Improved Players Candidates

Oklahoma City Thunder players Josh Giddey and Jalen Williams have a chance to make a case for Most Improved Player.

As a team turning the corner in its rebuild, the Oklahoma City Thunder has seen year-over-year improvements all around. Josh Giddey is a prime example of this. His all-around game expanded and his counting stats backed it up.

For the upcoming NBA season, ESPN gave their predictions for league-wide award winners, which included a variety of Thunder members. Two players were listed as contenders for the Most Improved Player award, those being Giddey and Jalen Williams.

As mentioned, Giddey's improvement wasn't only felt by the team, but measured in the box score. He jumped 4.1 points per game, shots six percent better on 3-pointers and improved his overall efficiency six percent from the field. 

Giddey is nearly 21-years-old heading into his third season in the NBA. His talent has plenty of room to be developed while already making a huge impact for the Thunder as they made the Play-In Tournament. 

The 6-foot-8 point guard has the ability to become among the most important pieces to the Thunder's young core for a long time, as his talent could perfectly amplify what the team looks for in its talents. 

A more recent breakout player, Williams, was the runner-up for Rookie of the Year. He found a level of comfort and efficiency during his rookie year. The former No. 12 overall pick grew into his own player with star potential, and that's bound to improve.

There's an argument that teams will be able to further scout and prepare for Williams, but, evidently, Williams' efficiency is enough to disprove that. His big frame and 52 percent efficiency from the field allow him to perfectly complement Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the rest of the talent the Thunder has.

The 6-foot-6 guard/forward averaged 14.1 points per game through his first season. He played 75 games, starting in 62 of them, and when he earned the starter spot, he claimed it. 

Both young players are due for another huge season, and they'll be key in the team taking yet another leap as they turn he continue turning the corner. 

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