Breakout Players to Watch in the Upcoming NBA Season

Defining a breakout player in the NBA can be tricky. For some, it means moving from being a hopeful prospect to becoming an essential part of a team’s rotation. Others might consider it as stepping into a larger role or even setting themselves up for substantial earnings. Typically, the most notable breakthroughs come from players who are already quite good and suddenly emerge as some of the league’s elite.

Each NBA season introduces a few players who can completely reshape perceptions of the league. This year appears to be no different, and their impact could significantly influence their team’s future.

With the 2025-26 NBA season on the horizon, I’ve identified six players likely to make a significant impression this season. These players include a variety of breakout types, ranging from dependable role players to dark-horse MVP candidates.

Alperen Sengun, C, Houston Rockets

Sengun might have already had his breakout moment last year when he earned his first All-Star selection while the Rockets secured the second seed in the Western Conference. I think he has more to offer, though. As he enters his age-23 season, Sengun comes off a solid performance at EuroBasket and finds himself in a favorable situation. Last season, the Rockets struggled with their 3-point shooting, ranking 27th in the league. Many of Sengun’s shots were attempts from the floater range, but this year could be different, especially with Kevin Durant drawing defenders and spacing the floor. He had issues with his 3-point shooting (just 23 percent) and free throws (69 percent) last year, but his EuroBasket performance suggests he can improve. With Fred VanVleet out for the season, his playmaking stats could also rise significantly after recording a 24.1 percent assist rate last year. Defensively, Sengun made impressive strides last season; if he can sustain that growth while taking on more offensive duties, he might emerge as one of the top players in the West. I had him at No. 6 on my NBA MVP watch list, which feels pretty bold given Vegas’ current odds of 400-1 for him. But who knows how the season will unfold?

Author Thompson, G/F, Detroit Pistons

While the Pistons have several players to choose from, including Jalen Duren and Jaden Ivey, Thompson may offer the best blend of opportunity and potential impact. His twin brother, Amen, significantly broke out for the Rockets last season, and Thompson could have followed suit if not for a blood clot early in his campaign. Although both brothers struggle with their 3-point shooting, Thompson excels in other areas. He’s an elite athlete capable of creating turnovers, fast breaks, and cleaning rebounds. This season, he should develop into one of the NBA’s top perimeter defenders, having performed well in various metrics last season. I’ve always appreciated his playmaking since his Overtime Elite days, and if the Pistons create enough opportunities, that skill could blossom further. Despite some challenges sharing the floor with other non-shooters, his overall impact makes it hard to keep him off the court alongside Cade Cunningham.

Matas Bouzelis, F, Chicago Bulls

Chicago’s fast-paced style should be advantageous for Bouzelis as he attempts to build on his rookie season. The Bulls ranked 20th in offense last year, but they’re committed to a speedy approach, which benefits their young star. Bouzelis excelled in transition, boasting impressive shooting stats and defensive metrics for a rookie. Despite previous struggles from beyond the arc, he showed improvement, hitting 36 percent in his rookie year. His usage should rise this season, and although he might face challenges in half-court plays initially, his strengths in transition and rim protection will certainly keep him in Billy Donovan’s lineup. While the Bulls may remain under .500, Bouzelis has a prime chance to shine individually.

Terrence Shannon Jr., G, Minnesota Timberwolves

The Timberwolves’ first-round draft picks have openings to contribute now that Nickell Alexander-Walker has moved on. Though I initially favored Rob Dillingham over Shannon Jr., I think Shannon fits better with Minnesota’s current needs. At 25, he’s got experience and has shown aspects of his game that translate well, especially in transition where he shines. His 3-point shooting percentage was limited last year, but he did manage to make some key shots. For Shannon, the focus needs to be on improving his defensive efforts, particularly in generating turnovers and steals. It may seem like a gamble to list him in light of my previous views, but he’s poised for success this season, particularly if the Timberwolves aim for a strong showing in the West.

Cam Whitmore, F, Washington Wizards

I still believe in Whitmore, whom I rated as the fourth-best prospect before he slipped to the 20th pick. Despite being surrounded by talented wings in Houston, he will likely have more chances to make an impact with the Wizards, who are still in a rebuilding phase. For Whitmore to maximize his scoring, he should focus on better shot selection. While he possesses remarkable power and explosiveness, he needs to improve his vision on the court, often prioritizing scoring over team play. Although these shortcomings posed challenges in Houston, the Wizards offer a more forgiving environment for a player looking to flourish. I remain convinced that Whitmore’s scoring abilities can shine here.

Kason Wallace, G, Oklahoma City Thunder

Already a crucial part of the Thunder’s championship ambitions just shy of 22, Wallace also shows promise for further development on offense. His current defensive prowess has earned him a spot in the rotation, and as older players move on, his defensive role will only increase. I’m curious to see how he evolves offensively since his current usage is quite low. When he gets the chance to play, he showcases a solid handle and effective scoring ability. Given his low shooting percentage last year, there’s room for improvement, particularly from beyond the arc. As Wallace continues to refine his skills, the Thunder’s talent pool only grows stronger.

Moussa Diabaté, C, Charlotte Hornets

Kelel Ware, C, Miami Heat

AJ Green, G, Milwaukee Bucks

Jared Butler, G, Phoenix Suns (currently on non-guaranteed contract)

Sandro Mamukelashvili, C/F, Toronto Raptors

Jake LaRavia, F, Los Angeles Lakers