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NBA Predictions 2013-14: The Next Big Breakout Player at Every Position

Discussion in 'Basketball' started by luvgonzo, Oct 3, 2013.

  1. luvgonzo

    luvgonzo Pisshead

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    http://bleacherreport.com/articles/...he-next-big-breakout-player-at-every-position

    My pick from that bunch is this guy.............

    Unlike in years past, the spotlight entering Spurs training camp will be tilted towards one of their youngest players.

    All eyes are now on Kawhi Leonard, whose performance during last year's playoffs appeared to be a sign of things to come.

    After averaging just 11 points and six boards on the year, Leonard went on to average 13.5 and nine through four postseason series. He also recorded a double-double in six-out-of-seven finals games while defending the best player in the world.

    This year, expect the Spurs to give him a little more offensive responsibility. He only took 9.1 shots a game last season, a number you can expect to rise entering year No. 3.

    Overall, Leonard excels in the three areas that make him a strong complementary piece—three-point shooting, perimeter defense and finishing in the open floor.

    Look for Leonard to be more aggressive this season as a scorer, particularly in the mid-range, where he can step back from 18 feet or take it strong to the rack.
     
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  2. luvgonzo

    luvgonzo Pisshead

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    Point Guard: John Wall, Washington Wizards

    The numbers have been there—16 points and eight assists per game through three NBA seasons—but John Wall hasn't fully broken out yet.

    Rarely is he mentioned with the other upper-echelon point guards in the game. I'd imagine that has something to do with his win-loss and injury records.

    But now healthy entering year No. 4, alongside a more talented and experienced group, and Wall and the Wizards should be able to make some noise during the 2013-14 season.

    As an individual, Wall's ceiling sits up there with some of the brightest young point guards around. Only Russell Westbrook and Derrick Rose share the same level of athleticism and explosiveness. And you forget Wall is also just 23 years old.

    His ability to pick up free points in the open floor and break down half-court defenses make him a playmaking machine. Wall's struggles as a pro can be traced directly to his shooting and decision making, though you can make the argument a poor supporting cast has led to him having to force the issue.

    And though some call his jump shot broke, there's certainly still hope.

    According to Vorped, Wall only knocked down 109 mid-range jumpers in 66 games in 2011-12. However, in 49 games the following season, Wall hit 130.

    Wall missed the start of last year with a knee injury but will enter the 2013-14 season ready to roll at 100 percent. With backcourt mate Bradley Beal also given a clean bill of health, these two could form one of the most potent backcourts in the league.

    I like Wall to emerge this year as a true floor general and finally get recognized as one of the NBA's premier point guards.

    Other Candidates: Eric Bledsoe (PG/SG), Phoenix Suns, Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers, Brandon Knight, Milwaukee Bucks
     
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  3. luvgonzo

    luvgonzo Pisshead

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    Shooting Guard: Bradley Beal, Washington Wizards

    Bradley Beal is poised for one of the most destructive breakouts of the year.

    I'd go as far as to predict that Beal will be in contention to finish the year as a top-five scoring 2-guard— right behind James Harden, Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade and Monta Ellis.

    His maturity, both physically and mentally, are both extremely impressive for a kid his age. Beal has the ideal body for his position, as well as the athleticism shared by all the NBA stars. At 6'5'' with a 39-inch max vertical, he has the size and spring for an attacker to complement his accuracy as a shooter.

    Beal rocked a 38.6 percent stroke from downtown as a rookie, a number that's likely to carry over throughout the course of his career.

    On the perimeter, he has the shot-making skills to knock down anything, whether he's pulling up or stepping back.

    He's also deceptively effective off the dribble. Beal can put it on the floor and get to the rack or find the space needed to cleanly release.

    Beal has been getting in all sorts of work in the offseason, and he mentioned to The Washington Post he's entering the year with his confidence "sky high."

    So is mine. I'm thinking around 17-to-18 points a game for the game's next star 2-guard.

    Other Candidates: Iman Shumpert, New York Knicks, Jimmy Butler, Chicago Bulls
     
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