Donovan Clingan Might Be Your Most-Improved Player for 2026-27

Dave Deckard of Blazer's Edge suggests that Portland Trail Blazers center Donovan Clingan could emerge as a candidate for the NBA's Most Improved Player award early in the 2026-27 season. Through the opening weeks, Clingan has averaged 12 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks in 24.6 minutes per game while shooting 57% from the field and 47% from three-point range.

Deckard argues that Clingan serves as a defensive anchor and drives Portland's league-leading rebounding. However, the writer notes obstacles to winning the honor, including Clingan's defense-first role, team market size, and aggregate counting stats that remain comparable to the previous season's 12.1 points and 11.6 rebounds.