Collin Gillespie has emerged as one of the most surprising breakout talents in the current NBA season, yet skepticism remains regarding his rapid ascent within the Phoenix Suns’ lineup.
Gillespie’s transformation over the past year is noteworthy; he transitioned from a little-known two-way player to a key starter for the Suns. However, not everyone has fully embraced this change. Respected sports commentator Bill Simmons, during a discussion with Tim Legler on The Ringer podcast, voiced his doubts about Gillespie’s candidacy for the Most Improved Player award.
While Legler applauded Gillespie’s growth, even recalling his previous encounters with the player on the AAU circuit, Simmons expressed concerns about Gillespie’s eligibility. According to him, the award should not include players who went from obscurity to prominence within a single season. He also mentioned Reed Sheppard as another player he feels shouldn’t be considered despite significant improvement, pointing out that Sheppard was a third overall pick and should not receive accolades simply for improvement over time.
This raises an interesting question about the criteria for the Most Improved Player award. If players like high lottery picks are deemed ineligible, it creates uncertainty about who qualifies. Simmons did suggest that Jalen Duren is a strong candidate, recognizing Duren’s notable progress with the Detroit Pistons.
Despite the skepticism from Simmons, Gillespie has made a compelling case for himself, especially given the competition from fellow players like Jordan Goodwin and Jamaree Bouyea. Although Gillespie’s performance has positioned him as the standout among the three, there are still concerns regarding his national recognition, particularly as the Suns continue to exceed expectations while flying under the radar.
Ultimately, while Gillespie may not secure the award, his focus remains on contributing to the team’s success. His decision-making skills have been a crucial factor in his development, and regardless of possible accolades, he continues to solidify his role within the Suns organization.