Dyson Daniels, who led the NBA in steals while also improving his scoring, rebounds, and assists for the Atlanta Hawks, has been named the league’s most improved player.

Daniels triumphed over line finalists Ivica Zubac from the Los Angeles Clippers and Cade Cunningham of Detroit.

At 22, Daniels has developed into a vital starting shooting guard following his transfer to Atlanta, where he replaced high-profile guard Dejounte Murray in a trade made on July 6.

Before his move, he was primarily recognized for his defensive skills. Thanks to injuries and trades, Daniels seized the opportunity to shine as a scoring partner to Trae Young, showcasing his impressive overall performance.

Daniels is now considered a key player for the Hawks, aligning with Young, forward Jalen Johnson, and last year’s top draft choice Zaccharie Risacher, who was the runner-up for this year’s rookie of the year award won by Stephon Castle of the Spurs.

Leading the league, Daniels recorded 229 steals, a remarkable tally last seen since Gary Payton’s 231 steals in the 1995-96 season. He also finished second in the voting for the NBA’s defensive player of the year.

Daniels holds the nickname “Great Barrier Thief,” referencing his Australian heritage and defensive capabilities.

His significant improvements in scoring from 5.8 points per game with New Orleans in 2023-24 to 14.1, rising rebounds from 3.9 to 5.9, steals from 1.4 to 3.0, and assists from 2.7 to 4.4, have positioned him among a rare group of players: only the fifth since the ‘73-74 season to average at least 14.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 3.0 steals.

Hawks coach Quin Snyder advocated for Daniels’ recognition as the league’s premier defensive player, while also acknowledging his all-around advancements. Snyder remarked, “His effectiveness on-ball is evident; his ability to drive the ball showcases his fearlessness.”

Milwaukee’s Doc Rivers praised Daniels as a holistic player with individual aspirations, commenting on his substantial size and toughness that differentiate him from others.

The Hawks acquired Daniels, alongside Larry Nance Jr., Cody Zeller, and two future first-round picks, in the Murray trade — a deal that proved effective for Atlanta. However, it did not suffice to save general manager Landry Fields, who was dismissed on April 21 after a disappointing 40-42 season, missing out on the playoffs.

The NBA’s most improved player award was determined through a global panel of 100 writers and broadcasters, who cast their votes shortly after the conclusion of the regular season. The voting also highlighted other awards including Stephon Castle being named rookie of the year, Evan Mobley securing defensive player of the year, Jalen Brunson being honored as clutch player of the year, and Payton Pritchard receiving recognition as the sixth man of the year. Additional awards will continue to be announced during the playoffs.