Predicting every NBA team's breakout player for 2024-25 season
By Dalton Sell
Utah Jazz - Johnny Juzang
In 11 G-League games last season, Johnny Juzang showed plenty of potential by stuffing the stat sheet with 21.4 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game. Above all else, he showcased tough shot-making capabilities, which could certainly help the Utah Jazz at the next level. After giving him an extension this offseason, Utah clearly thinks highly of Juzang.
While the 23-year-old already has a case to earn minutes, something to keep an eye on is the future of Jordan Clarkson, who has been shrouded in trade rumors consistently over the past year or so. If he were to be moved elsewhere, significant minutes would open up at the shooting guard slot, giving Juzang room to spread his wings and grow into a steady rotation player.
Washington Wizards - Bilal Coulibaly
At the seventh overall pick in last year's draft, the Washington Wizards clearly have faith in upcoming sophomore Bilal Coulibaly, and they desperately need him to pan out. After a rookie year where there were plenty of growing pains, the 20-year-old wing is looking to take the next step. After playing with France in the Olympics this summer, the youngster has gained experience that could help him grow.
Coming into the NBA, Coulibaly was known for his defense, and he was up to par on that end last year, showing glimpses of becoming incredibly reliable on that end. Yet, for him to ascend, he must have a growth spurt on the offensive end, taking strides as a playmaker, shooter and scorer. If he can do that in year two, he could have a big year for the Washington Wizards.
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