Each new NBA season offers young players the opportunity to take a leap forward and establish themselves as bona fide stars. These “breakthroughs” are usually a direct result of young players being given more playing time, being asked to take the reins or being given a blank check to shoot. Given their performances last season, here are the top breakout candidates for the 24-25 season:

Brandon Miller (Charlotte Hornets) – Miller is a superstar waiting to grow, and on a team like the Hornets, he will have every opportunity to shine. Miller is a 6’10 wing that teams would love to build around because of his offensive skills – he shoots inside and outside the arc and can create shots for himself. He will have a lot of touches when matched up against a highly intelligent guard like LaMelo Ball. Miller also shows signs of brilliant defense.

Jonathan Kuminga (Golden State Warriors) – Kuminga went from being a supporting player to a key player in the Warriors’ continuity efforts last year. After the departure of Klay Thompson and Chris Paul, and with Draymond Green (age 34) and Steph Curry (age 36) ending their careers on the wrong side, the Warriors are hoping Kuminga will become another superstar they can build around in the post-Curry era. When Kuminga gets playing time, he has delivered, as evidenced by becoming the starter during Green’s suspension.

Josh Giddy (Chicago Bulls) – Giddey is only 21 and his arrival in Chicago could bode well for his career. He comes to the Bulls after averaging 12.3 points, 6.4 assists and 5.0 rebounds on 47.5% shooting last season. His numbers have declined from last season as the Thunder used him less. With the Bulls rebuilding and key veterans leaving, Giddey will be handed the keys and running the Bulls offense.

Jabari Smith, Jr. (Houston Rockets) – Smith averaged 13.7 points, 8.1 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.5 stocks (steals + blocks) in the second year of his career. He also finished the year with an impressive shooting percentage of 45.4/36.3/81.1. His size (6’10”) and athleticism have helped him improve his defense, allowing the Rockets to play him on the perimeter or defend bigger centers in the box. With coach Ime Udoka as a mentor, Smith should be a key player as the Rockets go from rebuilding to playoff contender.

Andrew Nembhard (Indiana Pacers) – Nembhard showed his breakout potential when he took over as the Pacers’ manager after Tyrese Haliburton was injured in the Eastern Conference finals against the Boston Celtics. Against the league’s best defense, Nembhard rose to the occasion, averaging 28 points, 9.5 assists and 5 rebounds in Games 3 and 4. Both games were close, and if just one or two plays had gone in Indiana’s favor, Nembhard would have been the unlikely hero.

Jalen Dueren (Detroit Pistons) – Duren is considered a true post player due to his size, strength, athleticism and footwork in the box. His skill set allows him to dominate both ends of the court and he is expected to increase his numbers in year three. However, he will need to improve his range and long-range shooting if he wants to become the total package.

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