NBA: 9 players and 3 coaches with the most to prove as play resumes

NBA candidates with something to prove: Bradley Beal

Bradley Beal has single-handedly willed the Washington Wizards to near playoff contention. I mean, what more does he need to do? With the absence of John Wall for the past year, his backcourt mate has filled in stupendously.

Similar to Booker, it will be the next step on his way to superstardom if he is able to will this Wizards team into the postseason.

NBA candidates with something to prove: Rudy Gobert

Things have completely fallen off the rails for the Utah Jazz. From Bojan Bogdanovic ending his season for wrist surgery to the potential rift between the two stars of the team has sent Utah in disarray. How can it be salvaged?

Simple, Rudy Gobert has to put up the best defensive performances of all-time. The only way he will win over his team and the organization is he works alongside Donovan Mitchell and stifles the opposing offense.

NBA candidates with something to prove: DeMar DeRozan

The San Antonio Spurs were on their way to the lottery for the first time in over 20 years. George Gervin, David Robinson, and Tim Duncan are not walking through the door to help them turn things around. Is this the time for DeMar DeRozan to step up?

Since his arrival, DeRozan has been good but not great. Having the chance to lead one of this generation’s most successful organizations to another playoff berth could label him as a bonafide leader and potentially someone to build around for the next few years.