Top 5 Breakout Stars Predicted for 2025-26 NBA Season
The NBA is set to witness exciting developments in the 2025-26 season as several emerging players are primed for breakout performances. This analysis identifies the top five players who are likely to make significant strides this season.
Top 5 Breakout Stars Predicted for 2025-26 NBA Season
- Amen Thompson – Houston Rockets
Amen Thompson showed promise last season, making the All-Defensive Team and participating in the 2025 Rising Stars game. With Kevin Durant joining the Rockets and Jalen Green’s move to Phoenix, Thompson is poised to take on a larger playmaking role. Last season, he was highly effective, leading in effective field goal percentage allowed among defenders contesting over 600 shots. If he improves his shooting percentages, especially from beyond the arc, he could become an All-Star at just 22 years old.
- Payton Pritchard – Boston Celtics
This year, Payton Pritchard will face a golden opportunity due to Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury. Coming off a successful season where he secured the Sixth Man Award, Pritchard now has the chance to step up his game significantly. With minimized expectations for the Celtics, he is likely to see increased scoring responsibilities. He needs to leverage his shooting ability and become a key contributor as the team navigates this transitional phase.
- Jalen Duren – Detroit Pistons
Jalen Duren, the 21-year-old center, has emerged as a crucial player for the Pistons. He started all 78 games last season, shooting an impressive 69.2% from the field while averaging a double-double. With Cade Cunningham’s growth, Duren has also enhanced his playmaking abilities, which may unlock further offensive potential this season. The Pistons could increase his playing time to over 30 minutes per game, enhancing his impact.
- Cameron Johnson – Denver Nuggets
Cameron Johnson achieved remarkable career highs last season as a versatile offensive player for the Brooklyn Nets. Following his trade to the Denver Nuggets, he is expected to fill the gap left by Michael Porter Jr. Johnson’s ability to shoot efficiently and contribute to playmaking aligns perfectly with the Nuggets’ offensive strategy, particularly alongside star player Nikola Jokic. This environment may propel him to surpass his previous performance levels as Denver aims for another title run.
- Andrew Nembhard – Indiana Pacers
As the Pacers face uncertainty following Tyrese Haliburton’s Achilles injury, Andrew Nembhard is set to take on more responsibilities as the primary ball handler. Nembhard has shown promise as a playmaker, but he must also improve his scoring efficiency to enhance his contributions. Despite the team’s current challenges, this season presents a critical opportunity for him to elevate his game and support the Pacers effectively.
Conclusion
The 2025-26 NBA season offers fertile ground for these breakout stars to ascend to new heights in their careers. Keeping an eye on their developments will be essential as they navigate opportunities in their respective teams.
