BetOnline Odds: Jalen Duren Leads 2026 NBA MIP Race

Jonathan Rodriguez

Written by: Jonathan Rodriguez

Last Update: Thu Mar 05, 2026, 7:05 am ET

Read Time: 4 minutes

BetOnline Odds: Jalen Duren Leads 2026 NBA MIP Race

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The race for the 2026 NBA Most Improved Player award is heating up as the current season unfolds. This marks the 40th year the league has handed out the honor. Over time, the award has recognized breakout stars and unexpected risers alike.

Hall of Famers like Tracy McGrady have claimed the trophy. Future Hall of Famers such as Kevin Love, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jimmy Butler also earned the distinction. 

However, the list also includes unlikely names like Gheorghe Muresan, Isaac Austin, Bobby Simmons and Aaron Brooks.

Now, the oddsmakers at BetOnline have reshaped the 2026 landscape. The opening NBA odds in July listed Deni Avdija as the favorite. Yet the market has shifted significantly. 

Bettors tracking NBA picks at leading US online sportsbooks now see a new frontrunner.

Top 3 Favorites to Win the NBA MIP Award

Jalen Duren (-150 at BetOnline)

Jalen Duren Detroit Pistons

Jalen Duren now leads the board at -150. The Detroit Pistons center has delivered a dominant leap this season. He has increased his scoring average to a career-high 14.2 RPG for the #1 seeded Pistons, while anchoring the paint defensively. 

Moreover, he has improved his efficiency and rebounding numbers. Duren's expanded offensive role has fueled his candidacy. He runs the floor harder and finishes stronger. As a result, he has become the engine for Detroit's resurgence. 

His consistency has made him the clear favorite in updated NBA odds at BetOnline.

Jalen Johnson (+225 at BetOnline)

Jalen Johnson Atlanta Hawks

Jalen Johnson sits second at +225. Johnson has taken command in Atlanta's rotation. He attacks the rim with confidence and stretches defenses with improved shooting.

Furthermore, his defensive versatility stands out. He guards multiple positions and pushes the pace in transition. That all-around development makes him a serious threat to overtake Duren.

Ryan Rollins (9/1)

Ryan Rollins Milwaukee Bucks

Ryan Rollins holds 9/1 odds. Rollins has carved out a larger role and capitalized on it. He has boosted his scoring while improving his assist-to-turnover ratio. 

Consequently, his growth has caught the attention of voters and bettors alike. Rollins went from a fringe roster spot to a Bucks starter.

Other Contenders

Deni Avdija Portland Trail Blazers

Deni Avdija now stands at 10/1 after opening as the favorite to win the MIP. Although his early surge cooled, he remains productive across multiple categories. Avdija is a first-time All-Star this season, and the lead option for the Portland Trail Blazers.

Nickeil Alexander-Walker sits at 18/1. He continues to thrive as a two-way contributor with improved perimeter shooting.

Keyonte George holds 28/1 odds. He has shown scoring flashes and greater playmaking control.

Anthony Black comes in at 80/1. Meanwhile, Collin Gillespie at 100/1 and Jaylon Tyson at 125/1 remain longshots. Still, strong second halves could shift NBA picks across US online sportsbooks.

A Brief History of the NBA Most Improved Player Award

The MIP award celebrates transformation and perseverance. Legends like McGrady used it as a springboard to superstardom. Antetokounmpo's win signaled his ascent into MVP territory. Meanwhile, surprise winners proved opportunity and work ethic matter.

For current contenders, the award represents validation. It confirms growth and elevates reputation league-wide. As BetOnline continues updating real-time NBA odds, the race remains fluid. However, Duren currently controls his destiny in this milestone 40th season.

Jonathan Rodriguez
Jonathan Rodriguez

Jonathan is an avid basketball fan, and is often looking forward to the next upcoming NBA season when not checking players' stats during games. He also likes to keep his ears on the ground for the latest rumblings in the online casino industry.

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