5 Players Poised for Breakout Season

Can these players take the next step?

With the NBA only a few days away, it’s that time of the year where analyst makes their predictions for the upcoming season. There is always excitement about seeing a young star or an unexpected star who breaks out onto the scene. Everyone who plays basketball and are in the NBA waits for their opportunity to have their defining moment. Here are five young players who I believe could have a breakout season.

Dennis Smith Jr, Point Guard, Dallas Mavericks: Dennis Smith Jr went under the radar due to Ben Simmons, Jason Tatum, and Donovan Mitchell. Dennis Smith Jr averaged 15 points and 5 assist a game during his rookie season. With the addition of Luka Doncic (which will take pressure off of him + elevate his game), Dallas will have one of the more exciting young backcourts in the NBA. Dennis Smith Jr had one of the highest usage rates for a rookie. With a year of experience under his belt, this will only help him as he understands the expectations of the NBA.

Brandon Ingram, Forward, LA Lakers: With the addition of LeBron James, no one should benefit more on this Lakers team than Brandon Ingram. Ingram has only scratched the surface in terms of his potential. Ingram averaged 16 points a game and Ingram really began to assert himself towards the end of the season. Ingram displayed the ability to take over the team with his scoring. Thanks to his lanky frame 6’9 with a 7’4 wingspan, Ingram has the potential to be an elite two-way player. As Magic Johnson and the organization noticed and stated that Ingram will be the prime piece for the future. Expect LeBron James to help bring out Ingram’s potential.

Zach Lavine, Guard, Chicago Bulls: With Lauri Markkanen most likely out the first month of the season. Look for Lavine to take charge of the team. Lavine looks like he has his bounce back along with a more consistent shot. Lavine looks ready to have an All-Star type of season. Look for Lavine to lead the Bulls in scoring and expect him to score 20 plus points a game this season. Don’t be surprised if the Bulls sneaks into the 8th seed and Lavine will be a big reason why.

Myles Turner, Center, Indiana Pacers: Myles Turner is an interesting player. Turner has the tools to be an elite center. Turner has a soft touch around the rim, he can space the floor with his shooting which is a major factor in today’s league, and has been one of the best rim protectors over the last couple seasons. Even though, his numbers were a bit down last year from his second year, expect him to take the next step. Turner is in his final year of his rookie contact, therefore if he wants a big contact, he must take that next step.

Jamal Murray, Guard, Denver Nuggets: Jamal Murray really came on strong late last season. Murray averaged 17 points a game and 20 points a game after All-Star break. Murray improved on his percentage from the 3PT, Free Throw, and from the field. With another year under his belt and the addition of Isaiah Thomas look for Murray to improve both on and off the ball and for him to take his game to the next level. Look for Denver to make some noise this year in the West.