"Johnson has the second-shortest odds to win this award behind Deni Avdija (-120), both well ahead of Keyonte George (+800) and Nickeil Alexander-Walker (10-1). Of the two favorites, Johnson is still plus-money, so he has more reward for, in my opinion, at least an equal chance to win. Avdija's statistics have plateaued, or in the case of assists, decreased as his point guard teammates have gotten healthy."
"The Celtics are locked in a tight race with the Knicks (-135) to win the Atlantic Division, with the Celtics entering the All-Star Break a half-game ahead in the standings. Many expected the Celtics to have a down season in the wake of Jayson Tatum's Achilles injury, but Jaylen Brown has played like an MVP candidate and led the team to a roughly similar record to last season."
Jalen Johnson is among the leading candidates for Most Improved Player, with shorter odds than most except Deni Avdija, and his production has risen since the Hawks traded Trae Young. Avdija's numbers have plateaued or declined in assists as teammates regained health, while Johnson has been producing near double-doubles and could build a stronger statistical case if current trends continue. The Celtics and Knicks are separated by a half-game for the Atlantic Division, with Boston benefiting from a low remaining strength of schedule and Jaylen Brown performing at an MVP-caliber level. Jayson Tatum has progressed to 5-on-5 scrimmaging, leaving a long-shot possibility of a late-season return.
Read at ESPN.com
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