5. Who will be the biggest breakout star this season?
Michael: I’m buying the Darius Garland hype. I believe he’s going to be the best player on that team by the end of the season and the Cavs will be forced to trade Collin Sexton by the NBA Trade Deadline. Though, keep an eye on OG Anunoby in Toronto.
Liam: There are going to be some great young players that take the next step forward this season. The preseason has showcased talents from Jordan Poole, Tyler Herro, and others who are ready to take the next step. However, Darius Garland stands out as the player who I think will take the next step forward and break out. He is set to be one of the leaders on a young Cleveland team once again and showcased some of his potential at the end of last season. He is definitely one to watch.
David: Terance Mann. While the Clippers’ forward isn’t likely to have the kind of breakout season that establishes himself as a legit number-one option, ala Zach LaVine last year, the former second-round pick will thrive in the prolonged absence of Kawhi Leonard.
Following Leonard’s season-ending injury in the playoffs, Mann earned a stupendous 122.6 (!!) offensive rating, along with a 66% true-shooting mark that culminated in a 39-point performance in Game 6 of the Western Conference Semifinals against the Jazz that propelled LA to the next round.
Even if those numbers aren’t entirely sustainable, Mann’s versatility and ability to play almost any position will ensure that he is at the heart of the Clippers’ most effective lineups all season long.