Breakouts, Bounce Backs and Budding Babes

Chapter 1 � I WANT TO BREAK FREE: Breakouts in 21-22

In a world of uncertainty and a multitude of inconsistencies, the truth of matter is that the backseat Nostradamuses will forever prophecies and speculate. Finding anything to justify their theories, be it crystal ball or Rotoworld. As a new NSL year looks to kick off, we take a look at the potential breakouts, bounce backs and budding babes of the league.

We will chronicle the top 5 in each category, thinking about the players that are set for breakout years heading into season 21-22, the players likely to bounce back on a poor showing in season 20-21, and the young talent 1-2 years into their career who are set for big things.

We will release in installments � to allow the selection of these talents be known and marinate.

In chapter 1, we seek to answer the question of Who Will Breakout in Season 21-22?

Breakouts have a myriad of variables that can mean that player flourishes or a player faulters.

Movement has been rife within the NBA and in this flurry the opportunities for players to find greener pastures or have opportunities opened due to another�s exit. Before we begin we will give further insight into this deep-dive acknowledge that the potential upside of these players is based on opportunity, previous seasons, new team dynamics and injury returns.

These lists are not in a particular order.

1.       Michael Porter Jr.

MPJ will take an even bigger step to becoming a star of the league. A gigantic contract and a lot of faith from the organisation, MPJ had a decent showing in season 20-21. We now see him in Year 3, and he has all the hallmarks of a player ready to take the next step. His last season NBA numbers were very similar to his NSL numbers. In a Denver team, lead by Steph Curry and awaiting the return of Klay Thompson, MPJ will be tasked with a lot of responsibility, and we imagine he will see a lot of ball. Currently rated 84 in 2K, MPJ can quickly increase his ratings. We can expect him to increase in all areas of his stat-lines. In particular his PPG, Rebounds and Assists; watch this space. Not too surprising to see his name here in the top 5. MPJ seems to have the mentality and the attributes to be an all-star player � and a Denver Nuggets darling.

2.       Robert Williams III

In the NBA, the Celtics have already indicated the Williams will be the likely option. It will be interesting to see the minute sharing between him and Horford, suggestions from the organisation seem to project they see him as a starting center. On a four-year $54 million-dollar extension deal, he will increase dramatically his production, and his mentorship with Horford will be great for his game. Currently rated 79 in 2K, Williams is set for a big year � the New Orleans Pelicans are in an enviable poster as the stalwart Brook Lopez plateaus, Williams is emerging.  We can expect his rebounds, steals and block totals to increase � last season Williams was able to supply these averages on 23 minutes per game. With an increase usage, rating and minutes totals, Williams can be a big catalyst for change in the Pelicans Championship hopes.

3.       OG Anunoby

Anunoby has been on many people�s radars for his raw talent, potential and ability. He has been off the mark in his contributions � the Grizzlies had him start 58 games last season with the averages above. Anunoby looks primed for season 21-22, within a Toronto outfit that will see the ball in his hands more than ever with Pascal Siakam�s injury woes. Even upon Siakam�s return, Anunoby has been entrusted to be the guy it would seem by reports. We can expect a huge change in his averages � predominantly his APG and PPG numbers. He is currently rated 79 on 2k, a rating that will soar by seasons end. While not reading too much into Preseason performances, Anunoby has been sensational and lively throughout all games.

4.       Isaiah Stewart

Stewart is an intriguing prospect � especially in a Minnesota roster that see Siakam, Bryant, Cauley-Stein and Middleton all potentially stealing minutes. Stewart has an opportunity in the NBA to break free of the first-season shackles and take on the NBA in a young Pistons roster. Stewart managed the stats above on 61 games � as a first-year center he proved his doubters wrong. Currently rated 79 in 2K, we can expect him to significantly increase. Furthermore, his stat-lines should increase, in particular his boards, blocks and points. The differential between the stats we currently see to the end of season 21-22 I believe with be remarkable and potentially put him in MIP contention. Stewart will see far more game time than season 20-21; no Plumlee will mean that Stewart will be the guy. The young guards will find a Stewart often and his athleticism will be utilised with regularity.

5.       Kevin Porter Jr.

Porter Jr only saw starting minutes in 25 games from 61 games played. He has had his woes in the past and gone from showing to stunting in his potential progression. KPJ has a great opportunity to take the next step � the Rockets seem to be in a position that sees him as the corner-stone man for the organisation. NSL-wise, Porter Jr. is a lock for the starting lineup. Playing in tandem with Tatum, the two could create a dynamite connection that will give other teams conniptions. His breakout I believe with be the catalyst for the Celtics having an incredible season � the lineup will benefit from his ascendency. At current, KPJ is 77 in 2K, this is set to soar with increased minutes and usage. There are question marks on his intangibles, in particular his volatile mentality. However, I see his efficiency and approach stabilising as he become the man in Houston, and potentially the second-man in Boston.