Potential Breakout Stars of 2014

So every season a small group of individuals that have been in the league a few years blossom. Many of them have been buried on the roster and have had to work themselves in to the rotation. The players that eventually breakout, but didn't live up to the initial hype. Sometimes it takes a while for certain players to bloom. They may need time to adjust to the new physical demands of the pro game. Whatever the reason, players eventually find their groove and when they do its a great thing. In the past few seasons we have witnessed several players come alive such as Serge Ibaka, Paul George, Greg Monroe and John Wall. This season should be no different especially since many will have the incentive of looming free agency and the chance to earn a big pay day. Take a look at my picks for this years breakout stars.


*Some players have obvious expectations and will not be placed on this list but just know Andre Drummond, DeMarcus Cousins, Bradley Beal, Nick Batum and Anthony Davis will all be insane this season.*


1. Jimmy Butler: The Bulls young swing man announced himself to the basketball world during Rose Gate. He spreads the floor with good shooting, excels in the open court and is a rock on defense. He gave LeBron and Dwayne Wade fits during the 2013 playoffs and gave us a glimpse of what the future holds for the Bulls. He should start from the beginning of the season and if he can continue from where he left off, we are all in for a treat.






2. Klay Thompson: The sharp shooting two guard and tag team partner of the reigning breakout star award (Stephen Curry) is oozing potential. He has the ability to not only be one of the best shooters in the game, but one of the best overall talents in the league. Klay can make the leap by improving his shot creation ability and channeling his lock down defender.



3. John Henson: The NBA's version of Inspector Gadget has arms for days. He can defend 3 positions because of his length and is a monster on the boards. He has added some muscle and his offensive game is expanding. So what is needed to make the leap? He has to average a double double and be a consistent threat for the 10 block, 10 board, 10 point triple double.







4. Enes Kanter: The large human that is Kanter has flashed potential for the last few seasons, but now he will have the opportunity to show he can shoulder the burden. With Al Jefferson and Paul Milsap bolting for fresh starts elsewhere, Kanter can come full circle as a prime time center. He has the skills, the strength and the ability to become a potential all star.







5. Tobias Harris: Speaking of potential, Tobias Harris became a popular League Pass option once he was traded to the Magic. He is built in the mold of Carmelo Anthony, with a Paul George like ability to rebound and score. Skies the limit for the Canadian swing man, especially since Al Harrington is no longer on the roster and he has the green light.



6. Eric Bledsoe: The muscle bound Point Guard has a new team and a new role, Starting PG. He will start in the back court in a crowded Western Conference. He will have his hands full, but with his experience and a first class education from the School of Chris Paul he should be able to hold his own.







7. Kawhi Leonard: Focused and sturdy like his mentor Tim Duncan, the man of few words came on strong during the 2013 playoffs. His steady play, lock down defense and ability to finish at the rim should earn him a larger role. With more responsibility, he will certainly earn more attention and more spotlight. Welcome to fame and fortune Mr. Leonard.







8. J.J. Redick: While Redick has been a household name for quite some time, it has taken a while for him to earn himself a consistent starting role. Well that will change this season, since he was brought in for one reason, to play next to Chris Paul and draw attention away from Blake Griffin. He will capitalize on this opportunity and become a fixture on ESPN.



9. Derrick Favors: Mr. Favors has been waiting his turn and like his running mate mentioned above he will have a chance to make good on his new opportunity. Of the two players (Kanter the other) Favors is more talented and has more natural ability. He should rival the top Power Forwards in the West this season and challenge for Most Improved Player. His story is the perfect tale of the perfect storm.






10. *Michael Beasley*: Last but certainly not least the
enigmatic Michael Beasley has a chance to redeem himself for all of his failures. He is arguably the closest thing to a MAJOR BUST, without an injury in recent memory. The interesting thing is there is still a chance to turn that around. He is still young enough, talented enough and possibly hungry enough to turn it all around. His combination of skill set and size is rivaled by few on the planet, but his motivation is questionable. Playing alongside the big 3, in the house that Pat Riley built during the chase for a 3 peat should do more than motivate him. He can position himself for a 6th man of the year bid if he plays his cards right. We will see.


The Draft Fanatic