Key Highlights
- Victor Wembanyama and Luka Dončić are highlighted as key players primed for breakout seasons.
- Victor Wembanyama’s performance in his NBA debut was praised, showcasing improved ball-handling and lower-body strength.
- Luka Dončić is expected to excel with the Lakers due to a system built around his skills.
- Ausar Thompson, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Bennedict Mathurin, Nikola Jović, and Cam Whitmore are also mentioned as potential breakout players.
The 2025-26 NBA Season Outlook
The upcoming NBA season is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing in recent years. Analyst John Hollinger from The Athletic has identified several players who are poised for significant improvements, often referred to as “breakout seasons.” Among these, Victor Wembanyama and Luka Dončić stand out as linchpins of potential standout performances.
Victor Wembanyama: A Leap Forward?
Victor Wembanyama’s NBA debut left many jaws agape. In his season opener against the Dallas Mavericks, the 7-foot-1 center demonstrated not only his remarkable athleticism but also a more nuanced game that includes improved ball-handling and lower-body strength. Hollinger emphasizes Wembanyama’s potential to elevate beyond being simply one of the top players in the league; he could potentially become an MVP candidate.
Luka Dončić: A System Built Around His Skills
Last season, Luka Dončić was playing for a team that was not entirely built around his game. However, this upcoming season, the Los Angeles Lakers have shifted their focus to a system centered on him. With LeBron James sidelined due to sciatica, Dončić is expected to thrive as he adjusts to leading the team. Hollinger notes Dončić’s potential for a career-best year, citing his physical conditioning and improved shooting efficiency.
Other Notable Breakout Candidates
Several other players are also tipped for significant improvements in 2025-26:
- Ausar Thompson of the Detroit Pistons is expected to emerge as a key contributor after a full offseason of conditioning.
- Sandro Mamukelashvili, signed by the Toronto Raptors, presents an inside-outside combo that could make him more consistent in his third NBA season.
- Bennedict Mathurin is expected to become Indiana’s go-to scorer following Tyrese Haliburton’s injury and a strong playoff run.
- Nikola Jović, after a brief stint in Miami, may finally find the right role and volume needed for him to break out.
- Cam Whitmore, despite being on a team expected to perform poorly, is seen as an attacking player ready for a significant leap.
The Outlook: A Season Packed with Potential
The 2025-26 NBA season promises to be exciting, with several young talents and seasoned players primed for breakout performances. Whether it’s Wembanyama’s continued development or Dončić leading the Lakers to new heights, fans are in for a thrilling ride. Hollinger’s projections highlight the potential for these players to significantly enhance their games, making this season one of the most anticipated in recent years. This analysis underscores the dynamic nature of the NBA and the exciting prospects ahead as teams adapt to new challenges and opportunities.
