10 NBA players with breakout potential for 2022–23
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Every year we see NBA players taking big steps forward in their careers and putting their names on the map. Last year was no different, with Jordan Pool, Ja Morant, and Dejounte Murray showing their potential, among others.
Even though Ja Morant won the most improved player award, many players have improved significantly compared to last year. Each season brings something new, and we can’t wait to see which players will rise to that “new level” this year.
Today we’ll talk about some of our breakout predictions for the 2022–23 season and which players are likely to be the top contenders for winning the award this year. Let’s get started.
1. Bones Hyland – Denver Nuggets
Denver put Bones Hyland on the spot when they lost two key guards last season due to injury. Nobody expected much from the rookie, but he proved he had something special in him and played some big games in his first season.
We wouldn’t be shocked if he came out even better this season, especially when Murray gets back and there’s no pressure on Hyland.
2. James Wiseman – Golden State Warriors
The number two pick in 2020 is a big prospect, but so far, he couldn’t get any consistency due to injuries and Covid restrictions. Even though Wiseman didn’t play a single game during the Warriors’ championship run, he was working hard on getting back in shape. During all this time, he emphasized patience as one of the things keeping him going through hard times.
His 2022 preseason looks great, shooting with a great percentage, making smart plays, and moving explosively. Wiseman will be a big piece of the Warriors trying to defend their title.
3. Derrick White – Boston Celtics
White’s numbers might not look that impressive on paper compared to his last season at the Spurs. But his role was always to deliver some solid production off the bench and reliable defense. But White showed the whole NBA world how good he could be during Boston’s playoff run last season.
Even though he didn’t have the minutes of a superstar, he could have some big games and make the most out of his time on the court.
4. Malik Monk – Sacramento Kings
The LA Lakers had a terrible season last year, but at least Malik Monk was able to make the best of it. Even though Monk was traded to the Kings, he showed last season that he can score on all three levels and that he’s no longer a defensive liability.
Monk showed that he’s not just another freakishly athletic guard that people will only remember for a couple of dunk highlights. Monk will play with Fox and get serious minutes to prove his capability.
5. Zion Williamson – New Orleans Pelicans
Forgot about this guy? Williamson finally ended his 514-day break without playing a game during the preseason against the Bulls. There’s been so much hype around Zion for a good reason. He averaged over 25 pts per game with 60% shooting from the field.
The whole NBA awaits to see the full potential of this monster, and hopefully, he will remain healthy in the future.
6. Austin Reaves – LA Lakers
Nobody expected Reaves would get minutes over Wayne Ellington, Kent Bazemore, and Avery Bradly, but his fresh legs have made a big difference in Laker’s fluidity playing alongside James. Reaves showed solid production and even a couple of 30 pts games last season.
Let’s see where he takes his game this year and how far he can go with the new Lakers rooster ready to challenge that title. Even LeBron James complimented Reaves for his career and playing style.
7. De’Andre Hunter – Atlanta Hawks
Hunter was very impressive in his early years, but like Wiseman, he was constantly dealing with injuries. Many people forgot that he was the No. 4 pick three years ago. Reports say Hunter is back to 100% and is ready for the new season with the young Hawks team.
8. Tyrese Maxey – Philadelphia 76ers
Tyrese is likely one of the top three candidates for the most improved player next season. Maxey has quietly established himself in Philadelphia’s roster, and coach Rivers says he counts on him to continue doing the same this season with even more responsibility.
Maxey has learned to play off the ball but has also proven deadly with the ball in his hands with a versatile bag of tricks and quickness.
9. Patrick Williams – Chicago Bulls
The Bulls have an exciting roster with many young prospects, but we feel that Williams will step up this season and show what he’s worth. The 4th pick in 2020 played only 17 games during his rookie season because of a wrist injury but showed flashes of greatness. He will be a fun youngster to keep a close eye on in 2023.
10. Aleksej Pokusevski – Oklahoma Thunder
Pokusevski is entering his third season at just 20 years of age. Even though it’s clear that “Poku” needs more polishing to be a real contributor in the NBA, Sam Presti seems to be on board with pushing the youngster forward. This 7-footer has a lovely fluid shot, excellent court vision, and solid basketball IQ that could turn him into another Jokic-wannabe guard.
Catch all the action
So, the NBA games are always full of surprises from individual players and teams alike. Be sure to catch all the action and see it all happening live. Nowadays, you do not have to stay home to watch top sports.
You only need a laptop or smartphone to watch the game through sources like official NBA streams or streaming services like Hulu or Sling TV. If some of these games are unavailable, you can always try a VPN for Windows to change the virtual location of your computer. Essentially, a Virtual Private Network application reroutes your traffic through servers of your choice. Thus, even if you travel abroad, you can watch games safely.