In the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA, identifying the next breakout stars can be a daunting task. Players’ growth trajectories are far from linear, making it difficult to anticipate who will shine in the upcoming season.
Jalen Green’s Quest for Efficiency
Jalen Green, the electrifying shooting guard of the Houston Rockets, has already demonstrated his scoring prowess in his early NBA career.
His trajectory from averaging 17.3 points per game in his rookie season to an impressive 22.1 points per game in his sophomore year is indicative of his potential. However, beneath these impressive scoring figures, a discerning eye reveals a need for improvement in Green’s efficiency.
The Impact of Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks
The recent acquisitions of Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks by the Houston Rockets have raised intriguing questions about their influence on Jalen Green’s development. These additions bring a wealth of experience and a unique set of skills to the team.
Of particular interest is VanVleet’s role as a floor general, orchestrating the offense and creating opportunities for his teammates. For Green, who faced challenges with his field goal percentage near the basket in the previous season, the presence of VanVleet could be transformative. With VanVleet’s ability to set up plays and create open looks, Green may find himself in more favorable scoring positions.
Mark Williams’ Emergence in Charlotte
Mark Williams, the towering 7’1″ center for the Charlotte Hornets, experienced a significant surge in his role during the previous season. His journey from a limited role to becoming a starter was marked by impressive statistics: nearly 12 points and 10 rebounds per game in just under 27 minutes of play.
This transformation showcased Williams’ latent potential and hinted at what might be in store for him.
Obi Toppin’s Transition to the Pacers
Obi Toppin, renowned for his acrobatic dunks and athleticism, is embarking on a new chapter in his career with the Indiana Pacers. After spending three seasons in a reserve role with the New York Knicks behind Julius Randle, Toppin is set to spread his wings in a different environment. Toppin’s transition to the Pacers is intriguing, given the team’s up-tempo style of play and a proficient point guard leading the charge.
The Pacers, who ranked second in the league for wide-open three-point attempts, are likely to leverage Toppin’s three-point shooting abilities. Although Toppin’s career-long three-point shooting percentage of 32.5% falls below the league average, he has shown promise when given open looks, converting nearly 38% of such attempts in the previous season.