Cade Cunningham of Detroit, Ivica Zubac of the Los Angeles Clippers, and Dyson Daniels of Atlanta are the finalists for the NBA's most improved player award, each having made significant advancements in their performance this season. Cunningham led a remarkable turnaround for the Pistons, improving his personal stats across the board and propelling the team from the bottom of the league to a playoff spot. Zubac achieved career-high statistics, demonstrating strong performance on both ends of the court and maintaining consistent play over 80 games. Daniels, in his first season with Atlanta, transitioned into a full-time starter, significantly increasing his contributions across various metrics, including leading the league in steals. The award, determined by a global panel of 100 writers and broadcasters, highlights the most improved player in the NBA, with results set to be announced on Wednesday night.

Cade Cunningham significantly improved his performance this season, with his points per game rising to 26.1, a better field goal percentage of .469, and higher averages in rebounds and assists. His leadership was pivotal in transforming the Pistons from a bottom-ranked team to a playoff contender with a 44-38 record.

Ivica Zubac showcased the best season of his nine-year career, averaging 16.8 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. He played a career-high 80 games, maintained an average of nearly 33 minutes per game, and was recognized as one of the top defensive players in the league.

Dyson Daniels, in his first year with Atlanta, more than doubled his previous scoring average to 14.1 points per game and achieved career-bests in rebounds, assists, and field-goal shooting percentage. His performance included a league-leading 3.0 steals per game, marking a significant improvement from his time with New Orleans.

The most improved player award is part of the NBA's annual honors, voted on by a global panel of 100 writers and broadcasters. The award will be announced alongside other prestigious NBA accolades during the playoffs.

Other NBA awards already announced include Stephon Castle as rookie of the year, Evan Mobley as defensive player of the year, Jalen Brunson as clutch player of the year, and Payton Pritchard as sixth man of the year.

Additional awards presented by the NBA since the regular season's conclusion include Stephen Curry winning the Twyman-Stokes teammate of the year award and Draymond Green receiving the hustle award.

The NBA is set to announce further awards during the playoffs, including the MVP, coach of the year, and selections for the All-NBA, All-Rookie, and All-Defensive teams.