11 biggest surprises from the 2014-15 NBA season so far

By Evan Massey | Mar 13, 2015

Dec 20, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks shooting guard Kyle Korver (26) and small forward DeMarre Carroll (5) and point guard Jeff Teague (0) and center Al Horford (15) walk on the court against the Utah Jazz in the third quarter at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

10 of 12

Mar 11, 2015; Portland, OR, USA; Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) points against the Portland Trail Blazers during the fourth quarter at the Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Craig Mitchelldyer-USA TODAY Sports /

James Harden

How has James Harden been a “surprise” after he was already one of the league’s more dominant players last season? Quite simply, he has taken his game to the next level and has improved some of his main weaknesses.

Prior to last night’s game against the Utah Jazz, Harden had averaged 27.0 points, 7.1 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game. He has shot 44.6 percent from the field overall and 37.7 percent from behind the three-point arc.

Those percentages are extremely impressive due to the volume of shots that he is asked to take within the Rockets’ offense.

That being said, he hasn’t been as much of a ball-hog as he has been thought of in the past. He has made his offensive game much more dangerous due to his improved ability to make plays for his teammates.

There is no question that he is one of the front-runners for the MVP award and it wouldn’t be surprising at all to see him end up winning it.

Next: 2. New Orleans Pelicans

Home/Atlanta Hawks