NBA: 7 players who absolutely need to breakout in 2018-19

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NEW YORK, NY – JANUARY 19: D’Angelo Russell #1 of the Brooklyn Nets looks down the court against the Miami Heat during their game at Barclays Center on January 19, 2018 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

D’Angelo Russell, Brooklyn Nets

If you’ve followed my work – and I honestly don’t know why you would – you know my feelings on D’Angelo Russell. I loved him coming out of college, and don’t blame the Los Angeles Lakers for taking him second overall in the 2015 NBA Draft, but he has left a lot to be desired during his first few years in the NBA.

He was supposed to be the Lakers next star, but then he was traded to the Brooklyn Nets. He hasn’t looked all that impressive with either team, and is on the verge of completely falling off and turning to just another guy.

That’s why this is such a pivotal season for Russell. He has the platform to be great in Brooklyn, but still hasn’t taken full advantage of the opportunity that he’s been given with his new team. He is a restricted free agent next summer, so not only would it be perfect timing for a breakout season this year for the Nets, but also for his bank account.

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