The Way Too Early Case for Josh Hart to Win Most Improved Player [Poll]

Through three ugly losses this season, Josh Hart has stood out as a consistent bright spot among the many growing pains in the early going. Though 3 games isn't remotely close to an adequate sample size, Hart has without a doubt passed the visual test of taking a big next step as a player.

Often times, the NBA's Summer League is a great indicator of if a young player is ready to make a major step forward (see Jaylen Brown the year before). This year, Hart looked like a man amongst boys against the younger competition en route to bringing home the summer league MVP award. Unlike many other top prospects who dominate in summer league before showing out in the regular season, Hart didn't sit extended periods in the summer league and instead played a league leading 7 games while leading the Lakers young squad. Hart's relentless work ethic and drive to win undoubtedly are earning his veteran teammates' favor and it wouldn't be out of hand to say that there could still be room for further improvement within this year.

Through three games, Hart is averaging nearly 10 more points per game (17 ppg) while shooting a hyper efficient 53.8% from the field to go with 47.1% from deep. Hart was no slouch on a young Laker squad last year and flashed the efficient shooting he has put on display to start this season. Now, by adding more elite playmakers like LeBron and Rondo to run the floor alongside Hart, he is getting a steady serving of more and better looks compared to last year.

Josh Hart seems to be in a prime position where his personal hard work coincides perfectly with the pieces around him. With every game further showcasing the lack of shooting and defense on the Lakers, Hart becomes more and more valuable as a high IQ defender who his playmaker teammates can trust to knock down the open look.

From the looks of things, the minutes, shots, and playmakers aren't going anywhere and Hart should only have room to grow and continue to get comfortable playing alongside his new teammates.