Los Angeles Lakers Mid-Season Awards

Jan 2, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard

(11) attempts a shot defended by Los Angeles Lakers forward

(21) during the fourth quarter at Staples Center. The Memphis Grizzlies won 109-106. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports

Youngster of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, Most Improved Player – Ed Davis

Ed Davis has been a revelation for the Los Angeles Lakers this year. Coming to LA on a minimum deal, Davis has far outplayed his less than a million dollar contract.

He’s far and away the best Laker on the defensive end and the only thing resembling a rim protector, leading the Lakers with 1.2 blocks a game. And he’s done that playing less minutes than either Jordan Hill or Carlos Boozer, the latter starting over Davis to start the season. Adjusted to per-36 minutes, Davis takes an even further lead in the blocks department, proving his worth on that end of the court.

Across the board, Davis has played far better than anyone could have ever expected. He’s averaging career highs in points and blocks while just barely missing a career high in rebounds (7.0 per game this year with a career high of 7.1). He’s doing all that scoring on a career best shooting percentage as well and is on pace to play the most minutes of his career.

And he’s doing all this at just 25 years old. If the Lakers decide not to move Davis at the deadline, then he could be a key piece going forward for the Lakers.

Next: Clutch Moment of the Year