Dyson Daniels has been sensational for the Atlanta Hawks this season.
There might be many questions and concerns about the team moving forward, but Daniels has been a brilliant addition to the team, especially on the defensive end of the court.
According to Legion Hoops, Daniels has already recorded 151 steals so far this season.
That is more than any player has had in an entire season since 2019.
With the Defensive Player of the Year race opened up, does Daniels have a chance of earning an end-of-season award?
Dyson Daniels has already recorded 151 steals so far this season 😳
That’s more than any player has had in a FULL season since 2019…
Absolute clamps. 🔒 (via @HawksPR) pic.twitter.com/GesXUZhGX2
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) February 22, 2025
Daniels is averaging 13.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and a league-high 3.0 steals per game this season.
Compare that to last year, his final season with the New Orleans Pelicans, when he averaged 5.8 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.4 steals.
Looking at these two seasons allows you to see just how much he has improved over the year and how vital he’s become for the Hawks.
It’s been an interesting year for Atlanta.
They started stronger than expected, and some people felt they could establish themselves well and create a solid path through the playoffs.
But injuries and trades have hurt the team, and they are now the ninth team in the East.
There are people thinking about certain offseason moves the Hawks could pursue, but no one wants them to part ways with Daniels.
He is the sort of defensive powerhouse they need, and they want more of him.
Victor Wembanyama can no longer win Defensive Player of the Year, so other stars like Daniels have a chance.
If he keeps playing like this, his name will be tossed around for that prize a lot over the next few months.
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