Emerging Stars of the 2025-26 NBA Season
As the 2025-26 NBA season passes the 10% milestone, it’s become apparent that several players are stepping into the spotlight, showcasing significant improvements in their performance. To highlight this trend, we’ve compiled a list of ten standout players, dividing them into two separate breakout teams—each consisting of two guards, two forwards, and one center. Let’s take a deep dive into these emerging stars.
First Team
Center: Jalen Duren, Detroit Pistons
At just 21 years old, Jalen Duren is turning doubts from his previous seasons into optimism. After a lackluster year last season, Duren has revitalized his game, boasting impressive averages of 19.4 points and 12 rebounds per game in under 30 minutes played. His chemistry with Cade Cunningham has flourished, positioning him as a prime candidate for All-Star contention if his upward trajectory continues. The Pistons’ potential seems to hinge on Duren’s continued development.
Forward: Deni Avdija, Portland Trail Blazers
Although some may question whether Deni Avdija’s performance counts as a true breakout, with averages at 26.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.6 assists this season, the evidence suggests otherwise. Showing marked improvement from last season, Avdija is not only scoring more but is also thriving as a dual threat—shooting 2.6 three-pointers a game and making 85.4% of his free throws, while also enhancing his off-ball movement. Portland may have finally uncovered a cornerstone player for their franchise.
Forward: Jaime Jaquez Jr., Miami Heat
In his third year, Jaime Jaquez Jr. is lighting a fire under a Miami team that many expected to be lackluster. Currently, he’s the engine of the Heat’s second unit, contributing 17 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game. While his long-range shooting remains an area to improve, his ability to draw fouls and score effectively from the line showcases his evolving game and potential for sustained success.
Guard: Austin Reaves, Los Angeles Lakers
Austin Reaves is defying expectations with an outstanding scoring jump from a previous average of 20.2 points to 28.3 this season. His contribution extends beyond just scoring; Reaves is also averaging 8.3 assists and 5.1 rebounds, all while maintaining extraordinary shooting efficiency. With LeBron James sidelined, Reaves has emerged as a vital player for the Lakers, potentially solidifying a future contract extension in the process.
Guard: Stephon Castle, San Antonio Spurs
Despite lingering concerns regarding his shooting effectiveness, Stephon Castle is excelling in multiple facets of the game in his sophomore campaign. Averaging nearly 19 points along with significant contributions in assists and rebounds, Castle’s prowess on defense and at the rim—with a 76.7% conversion rate—illustrates his growth and versatility as a multi-dimensional guard.
Second Team
Center: Alexandre Sarr, Washington Wizards
Alexandre Sarr is showing remarkable improvement at just 20 years old. After a challenging rookie season, he’s upped his shooting percentage to 53.1% this season, including solid three-point shooting marks. This positive transformation is matched by his enhanced defensive plays, marked by fewer fouls and a growing number of blocks—a promising sign for the Wizards moving forward.
Forward: Trendon Watford, Philadelphia 76ers
After a quiet previous season, Trendon Watford is back with a display of versatility that has caught the eye. With averages of 9.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4 assists, he is making a name for himself on a surprising 76ers squad. His ability to facilitate ball movement has netted him a standout performance featuring a triplet of 20 points, 17 rebounds, and 10 assists against Toronto.
Forward: Matas Buzelis, Chicago Bulls
The 21-year-old Matas Buzelis is emerging quietly yet impactfully on the court, averaging nearly 15 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. While his stats may not jump off the page, his influence is evident in how he manipulates defenses and alters game trajectories through his relentless play style. With more time on the court, his contributions could be further harnessed.
Guard: Ajay Mitchell, Oklahoma City Thunder
In his second season, Ajay Mitchell is taking a step forward, showcasing averages of 16.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.8 assists. Leveraging the spacing provided by his teammates, he is effective at both attacking the basket and hitting key shots from outside. While his stats may dwindle with the return of Jalen Williams, Mitchell has demonstrated that he can be a reliable option.
Guard: Reed Sheppard, Houston Rockets
Reed Sheppard may average 12.2 points, but his dramatic improvement from last season positions him for a breakout narrative. Hitting an impressive 50% of his three-point attempts, his shooting form is effective and eye-catching. Even if he doesn’t fulfill the lofty expectations set from his draft position, his capability as a shooter alone could carve out a long and successful career in the NBA.
This early season observation ignites curiosity about how these players might shape their respective teams going forward—with the Lakers potentially adding to their arsenal and franchises reassessing their lineup strategies around these breakout performances.
