NBA: 1 Breakout candidate for every team heading into 2022-23

Dallas Mavericks – Christian Wood

Since he signed with the Houston Rockets, Christian Wood has been relatively quiet as a player. Part of that was due to the Rockets’ irrelevance, but part of that was also because he wasn’t in a position to succeed.

That will all change now that he’s on the same team as Luka Doncic. Wood could have a big season in Dallas, especially with Jalen Brunson gone.

Denver Nuggets – Bones Hyland

Bones Hyland made some waves last season but was largely under the radar for much of the season. With the Denver Nuggets expected to make the jump back into contention in the Western Conference, this could be a moment for Hyland to shine on a bigger stage.

He’ll have less pressure on him and that could open the door for an even bigger opportunity for him to be productive.