College Basketball: The Top 5 Midseason Player of the Year Candidates

5. Caleb Swanigan, Purdue Boilermakers

To this point, the Purdue Boilermakers -- at 17-4 through 21 games -- own their highest win percentage (.810) since 2009. They're 6-2 in the Big Ten and are ranked 20th in the AP's top-25.

Star sophomore Caleb Swanigan is the single biggest reason for the Boilermakers' early-season success, and for that reason he made the both midseason watch lists. How couldn't he? The 6'9" forward is averaging a double-double (18.8 points, 12.7 rebounds) with one three per game on 50% shooting.

His versatile game has proven oh-so-valuable for his team, as he's contributed 4.1 win shares in 31.7 minutes per game. On a per-40 basis, that amounts to .249 win shares, which ranks 16th nationally.

While Swanigan certainly feasted on teams in Purdue's out-of-conference schedule to start the season, he hasn't lost form in conference play. Through eight Big Ten contests, Swanigan is scoring 19.5 points and grabbing 12.9 rebounds. That's good enough for .191 win shares per 40 minutes and an in-conference PER of 24.5, compared to his overall rating of 26.9.

This trifecta of efficiency, consistency and production are what have him in the conversation for not only a first-round pick in this year's NBA draft, but also Player of the Year honors.