Top NBA Players to Watch This Season

As the new season approaches, the conversation around the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award intensifies, particularly with several elite players returning to the court. Among these candidates, Giannis Antetokounmpo stands out as a perennial favorite. The Milwaukee Bucks’ forward has consistently demonstrated his ability to dominate games with his unique blend of size, speed, and skill.

Last season, he averaged over 29 points per game while also contributing significantly on the boards and as a playmaker. His versatility allows him to impact the game in multiple ways, whether it’s through scoring in transition, finishing at the rim, or facilitating for teammates. With the Bucks aiming for another championship run, Giannis’s performance will be pivotal, and if he can elevate his game even further, he could very well reclaim the MVP title.

Another strong contender is Nikola Jokić of the Denver Nuggets. The reigning MVP has redefined the center position with his exceptional passing ability and basketball IQ. Jokić’s unique skill set allows him to orchestrate the Nuggets’ offense from the post or the perimeter, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

Last season, he averaged a triple-double, showcasing not only his scoring prowess but also his ability to rebound and assist. As the Nuggets look to build on their playoff success, Jokić’s continued evolution as a player will be crucial. If he can maintain his high level of play and lead Denver deep into the playoffs, he will undoubtedly be in the conversation for back-to-back MVP awards.

Key Takeaways

• Top Returning MVP Candidates:
• LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers
• Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks
• Kevin Durant, Brooklyn Nets
• Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors
• Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets
• Rising Stars to Keep an Eye On:
• Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans
• LaMelo Ball, Charlotte Hornets
• Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves
• Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies
• Michael Porter Jr., Denver Nuggets
• Players with New Teams and Impact Potential:
• Russell Westbrook, Los Angeles Lakers
• Kyle Lowry, Miami Heat
• DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls
• Kemba Walker, New York Knicks
• Lonzo Ball, Chicago Bulls
• Veterans with a Point to Prove:
• Chris Paul, Phoenix Suns
• Carmelo Anthony, Los Angeles Lakers
• Derrick Rose, New York Knicks
• Goran Dragic, Toronto Raptors
• Dwight Howard, Los Angeles Lakers
• Breakout Players from Last Season:
• Julius Randle, New York Knicks
• Christian Wood, Houston Rockets
• Jerami Grant, Detroit Pistons
• Michael Porter Jr., Denver Nuggets
• De’Aaron Fox, Sacramento Kings
• Players Returning from Injury or Absence:
• Klay Thompson, Golden State Warriors
• Jamal Murray, Denver Nuggets
• Victor Oladipo, Miami Heat
• Jusuf Nurkic, Portland Trail Blazers
• Jonathan Isaac, Orlando Magic

Rising Stars to Keep an Eye On

The league is teeming with young talent that is poised to make significant strides this season. One player who has garnered considerable attention is LaMelo Ball of the Charlotte Hornets. After winning the Rookie of the Year award in 2021, Ball has continued to develop his game, showcasing an impressive ability to score and facilitate.

His flashy passing and court vision have made him a fan favorite, and as he gains more experience, he is expected to take on an even larger role within the Hornets’ offense. With a growing confidence in his shooting and an improved defensive effort, Ball could emerge as one of the league’s premier guards this season. Another rising star is Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Edwards had a breakout season last year, averaging over 21 points per game while displaying an explosive scoring ability that has drawn comparisons to some of the league’s best shooting guards.

His athleticism and tenacity on both ends of the floor make him a dynamic player to watch. As he continues to refine his skills and develop chemistry with his teammates, particularly Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert, Edwards has the potential to elevate his game to new heights.

If he can harness his talent and become more consistent, he could quickly establish himself as one of the top players in the league.

Players with New Teams and Impact Potential

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The offseason saw several high-profile players change teams, creating new dynamics that could significantly impact their respective franchises. One of the most notable moves was Kevin Durant’s trade to the Phoenix Suns. Durant’s scoring ability is unmatched; he can create his own shot from anywhere on the court and is equally adept at finding open teammates. Joining forces with Devin Booker and Chris Paul gives the Suns a formidable trio that can challenge any defense in the league. The synergy between these players will be crucial as they aim for a deep playoff run.

If Durant can seamlessly integrate into Phoenix’s system while maintaining his elite level of play, he could help propel the Suns into championship contention.

Another significant move was Kyrie Irving’s trade to the Dallas Mavericks.

Irving’s offensive skill set is among the best in the league; he possesses an uncanny ability to score in isolation situations and create shots for himself and others. Pairing him with Luka Dončić creates a dynamic backcourt that could wreak havoc on opposing defenses. The Mavericks have been searching for a second star to complement Dončić, and Irving’s arrival could be just what they need to elevate their playoff aspirations.

However, Irving’s ability to stay healthy and focused will be critical; if he can do so, he has the potential to transform Dallas into a legitimate title contender.

Veterans with a Point to Prove

Year	Number of Veterans	Unemployment Rate	Median Income
2015	21.2 million	5.8%	40,076
2016	20.4 million	4.3%	42,144
2017	19.6 million	3.7%	44,314

As the league evolves, several veteran players find themselves at a crossroads in their careers, eager to prove they still have what it takes to compete at a high level. One such player is Russell Westbrook, who faced criticism during his time with the Los Angeles Lakers. Despite being a former MVP and one of the most explosive guards in NBA history, Westbrook struggled to find his rhythm alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Now with the Los Angeles Clippers, he has an opportunity to redefine his role and showcase his talents in a more suitable environment. If Westbrook can embrace a more team-oriented approach while still being aggressive offensively, he could silence doubters and re-establish himself as one of the league’s premier playmakers. Another veteran looking to make a statement is James Harden of the Philadelphia 76ers.

After a tumultuous season filled with trade rumors and injuries, Harden faces immense pressure to perform at an elite level. Known for his scoring ability and playmaking skills, Harden has been one of the most prolific offensive players in recent history. However, questions about his conditioning and commitment have lingered.

This season presents an opportunity for Harden to silence critics by returning to form and leading the 76ers deep into the playoffs alongside Joel Embiid. If he can regain his MVP-caliber performance, Harden could not only solidify his legacy but also help Philadelphia contend for a championship.

Breakout Players from Last Season

The previous season saw several players emerge as breakout stars, capturing attention with their impressive performances. One standout was Deandre Ayton of the Phoenix Suns. After being selected first overall in the 2018 NBA Draft, Ayton faced high expectations but struggled with consistency early in his career.

However, last season marked a turning point for him as he averaged nearly 18 points and 10 rebounds per game while showcasing improved defensive skills. His ability to dominate in the paint and contribute offensively made him a key player for Phoenix during their playoff run. As Ayton continues to develop his game and build chemistry with his teammates, he could solidify himself as one of the top centers in the league.

Another player who had a breakout season is Tyrese Haliburton of the Indiana Pacers. After being traded from Sacramento mid-season, Haliburton quickly established himself as a cornerstone for Indiana’s future. He averaged over 17 points and 9 assists per game while demonstrating exceptional court vision and shooting efficiency.

Haliburton’s ability to create plays for others while also being a scoring threat makes him a valuable asset for any team. As he continues to grow and take on more responsibility within the Pacers’ offense, Haliburton has all the makings of becoming one of the league’s elite point guards.

Players Returning from Injury or Absence

Injuries can significantly impact a player’s career trajectory, but several athletes are poised for comebacks this season after extended absences due to injury or personal reasons. One notable player is Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors. After suffering two devastating injuries that sidelined him for over two years, Thompson returned last season but was still working his way back into form.

Known for his sharpshooting ability and defensive prowess, Thompson’s presence on the court is invaluable for Golden State’s championship aspirations. If he can regain his pre-injury form alongside Stephen Curry, they could once again form one of the most lethal backcourts in NBA history. Another player returning from injury is Zion Williamson of the New Orleans Pelicans.

After missing significant time due to foot issues, Williamson’s return is highly anticipated by fans and analysts alike. His unique combination of size, strength, and agility makes him one of the most exciting players in the league when healthy. Last seen averaging over 27 points per game during his last full season, Williamson has shown flashes of brilliance that suggest he could become a dominant force in the NBA if he can stay on the court consistently.

The Pelicans are counting on him to lead their charge toward playoff contention this year; if Williamson can remain healthy and build on his previous success, he could become one of the league’s premier forwards once again.

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