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Top 2021-22 breakout candidate for each NBA team

By Jake Weinbach

Jan 8, 2021; Sacramento, California, USA; Toronto Raptors forward OG Anunoby (3) during the first quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 8, 2021; Sacramento, California, USA; Toronto Raptors forward OG Anunoby (3) during the first quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports /
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NBA Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports /

Top 2021-22 breakout candidate for each NBA team

New York Knicks: Mitchell Robinson

After a foot injury sidelined Mitchell Robinson for the majority of last season, the 23-year-old center is reportedly healthy and on the verge of returning to his valuable role with the New York Knicks. Robinson is still one of the most exciting young centers in the league with his versatility, athleticism, and swagger. Expect him to have a solid bounce-back season in the last year of his contract and with a possible lucrative extension on the line.

Orlando Magic: Mo Bamba

The Orlando Magic have been vastly patient with the development of Mo Bamba, and this could finally be the year for the 2018 No. 6 overall pick to breakout. Bamba has had an outstanding preseason, and with much more opportunities expected to come his way with Nikola Vucevic gone to Chicago, it’s time for him to take a major leap.

Philadelphia 76ers: Tyrese Maxey

Tyrese Maxey had an impressive rookie season for the Philadelphia 76ers as the shifty guard carved out an impactful role and showcased why he was one of the steals of the 2020 NBA Draft. With the Ben Simmons drama still causing headlines heading into the season, Maxey should earn the starting point guard position and help lead the offense alongside Joel Embiid and Tobias Harris. Maxey will surely take advantage of the situation.

Toronto Raptors: OG Anunoby

One player that continues to improve each year is versatile wing OG Anunoby, and this season could be the largest leap of his career. The Toronto Raptors should be emphatic about his promising growth as he’s become an efficient offensive asset to complement his reliable, elite defensive abilities. Anunoby could be a dark horse to win the 2021-22 Most Improved Player award.

Washington Wizards: Rui Hachimura

Rui Hachimura has returned to the Washington Wizards after taking a leave of absence due to mental health reasons and could be more determined than ever to show both himself and the world what he can do on an NBA court on a nightly basis. Hachimura still has excellent upside as he’s still putting all the pieces together within his all-around skill set, and this could be the season where the 23-year-old forward takes off.