NBA Season Preview: Players to Watch
As the start of the NBA season approaches in just one week, fans and analysts alike are beginning to shift their focus from offseason speculation to the upcoming reality of live games. While pre-season optimism often gets tempered by the actual performance of players, some individuals are expected to rise and capture the attention of basketball enthusiasts during the initial weeks of play. What follows is an exploration of players who could surprise and dominate the 2025-26 NBA season, showcasing their growth potential and unique skills.
Key Players to Watch
Trey Murphy III (Forward, New Orleans Pelicans) – Current ADP: 52
Despite his current average draft position being just inside the top 50, many see Murphy as a player with untapped potential. Last season, he recorded personal bests with an average of 21.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, although he was limited to 53 appearances due to injuries. Critics noted a spike in turnovers and a decline in three-point shooting efficiency, which can often accompany a young star adjusting to a more significant role. The Pelicans will rely more on Murphy, especially with key players like Dejounte Murray shelved for an extended period and Zion Williamson’s health status uncertain. His versatile skills position him well to contribute substantially as the team’s offensive demands increase.
Stephon Castle (Guard, San Antonio Spurs) – Current ADP: 109
Castle might have begun to showcase his breakout capabilities towards the end of the previous season, averaging 19.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 5.6 assists over his final 26 games in the absence of De’Aaron Fox. As the fourth overall pick in last year’s draft and the NBA’s Rookie of the Year, Castle’s name isn’t mentioned often enough among rising young talents, largely due to FOX’s anticipated return and the addition of Dylan Harper to the Spurs. Nevertheless, Castle’s exceptional slashing ability and improved shooting touch demonstrated in pre-season make him a compelling player to watch as he arrives into a promising role.
Matas Buzelis (Forward, Chicago Bulls) – Current ADP: 101
Buzelis has emerged as a favorite breakout candidate, recently climbing up fantasy boards due to impressive pre-season performances. With the Bulls in rebuild mode, he is set to play a significant role as he takes on high-usage responsibilities. After averaging 13.3 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks last season, he is expected to amplify those numbers throughout the entirety of the upcoming season, especially given the dearth of playmakers on the Bulls roster.
Toumani Camara (Forward, Portland Trail Blazers) – Current ADP: 110
Camara earns recognition not just for his play but also for the energy he brings to the court, earning the nickname “The Shadow.” He has established himself as a strong defender, crucial for accumulating defensive statistics. Following a productive season that saw offensive improvements, Camara is positioned for increased opportunities on a Portland team that has seen significant roster changes. While not an elite scorer, his dual threat as a shooter and offensive player could see him evolve into a valuable 3-and-D contributor with upside potential.
Reed Sheppard (Guard, Houston Rockets) – Current ADP: 111
Although Sheppard’s rookie season saw limited action, playing just 12.6 minutes per game, his first-round pick status and potential cannot be overlooked, particularly in light of the Rockets trading for Kevin Durant. He is regarded as a solid two-way player who can shoot and create plays, with the opportunity to step into a starting role now available with Fred VanVleet’s vacancy. Even modest scoring coupled with valuable support in assists and defensive stats makes him a player to monitor as the season unfolds.
Mitchell Robinson (Center, New York Knicks) – Current ADP: 182
Robinson is a familiar name to New York fans, known for his impressive rebounding abilities and efficient scoring, particularly in the paint. Under the new leadership of Mike Brown, who has plans to boost the Knicks’ pace, Robinson’s role is likely to expand further, positioning him for a breakout season. His previous athleticism may have diminished due to injuries, yet he possesses the talent to flourish in a fast-paced offense, making him a player for fantasy enthusiasts to consider.
Isaiah Jackson (Center, Indiana Pacers) – Current ADP: 185
With Myles Turner departing, Jackson stands to begin the season as Indiana’s starting center, presenting substantial breakout potential. Even without a significant leap offensively, his ability to rack up rebounds, blocks, and steals will be invaluable. Climbing fantasy rankings due to his promise, Jackson’s performance will depend on his recovery from a torn Achilles, but opportunity awaits him in this shifting roster.
Adem Bona (Center, Philadelphia 76ers) – Current ADP: 226
Bona, known for his defensive skills, gained attention by excelling as a starter late last season, averaging impressive metrics in scoring, rebounding, and blocks. His future performance hinges on the health of Joel Embiid, who has had his share of injuries, leading to a potential increase in Bona’s role and opportunities this season.
Moussa Diabate (Center, Charlotte Hornets) – Current ADP: 228
With the path clear to potentially secure the starting center position in Charlotte, Diabate’s growth as an elite rebounder and evolving scoring abilities place him in a good position this season. Despite needing to compete with Ryan Kalkbrenner, he could emerge as a reliable presence for the Hornets, especially given the increased focus on his offensive capabilities in the pre-season. A potential double-double machine, he can deliver significant contributions across the board.
Conclusion
As the season looms, all eyes will be on these players to see if they can transform their potential into performances that captivate audiences and impact fantasy leagues alike.
