Seven NBA Players Pegged as Breakout Candidates for the 2025-26 Season
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HoopsHype contributor Mike Shearer highlighted seven players he believes are positioned for significant leaps when the 2025-26 NBA campaign begins. The list, published on September 7 at 10:27 p.m. CST, spans six teams and features a mix of rising scorers and under-the-radar role players.
Shearer’s breakout picks
- Shaedon Sharpe, Trail Blazers
- Bennedict Mathurin, Pacers
- Andrew Nembhard, Pacers
- Sam Hauser, Celtics
- Brandon Miller, Hornets
- Jake LaRavia, Lakers
- Terrence Shannon Jr., Timberwolves
Sharpe’s inclusion stands out because the 22-year-old already averaged a career-best 18.5 points last season. Entering the final year of his rookie deal, the Canadian wing is extension-eligible until October 20, giving him a financial incentive to boost his numbers.
Indiana teammates Mathurin and Nembhard are also up for rookie-scale extensions. Both are expected to shoulder larger workloads with All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton sidelined for the year, creating opportunities for expanded offensive roles.
In Boston, offseason roster changes sparked speculation that forward Sam Hauser might be dealt, but he remains with the Celtics and could see increased minutes in 2025-26.
Second-year Hornets guard Brandon Miller missed much of last season after wrist surgery, while newly acquired Laker Jake LaRavia is slated to fill the rotation spot vacated by veteran forward Dorian Finney-Smith. Timberwolves rookie Terrence Shannon Jr. could pick up minutes once held by Nickeil Alexander-Walker.
Shearer invited readers to discuss the list and nominate additional breakout candidates in the comment section of the HoopsHype piece.
Source: Hoops Rumors
