With training camp still 28 days away, many teams are finalizing their rosters and establishing preliminary depth charts, allowing us to identify potential breakout players for the 2024/25 season.
This discussion focuses on players ready to transition from the fringes of rosters to regular contributors. A prime example from last year is Guerschon Yabusele, who went from being out of the league to highly valued role player. Last year’s analysis featured Max Christie, who significantly increased his scoring average from 4.2 to 9.6 points. While Larry Nance Jr. appears set for a stellar year with the Cavaliers, he brings 546 career games of experience.
Luka Garza/Josh Minott, Boston Celtics
The Celtics made strategic signings of Garza and Minott following the Timberwolves’ decision not to retain them. This move shouldn’t be seen negatively but rather as a reflection of Minnesota’s depth as they aim for immediate success.
Garza has limited playing time in his NBA career but has shown productivity when on the court, averaging 4.9 points and 2.0 rebounds in just 7.8 minutes, translating to impressive per-36 stats of 22.7 points and 8.9 rebounds. Though per-36 averages aren’t always a reliable indicator, Garza’s performance spans 124 games. He also proved his scoring ability in the G League, averaging 26.3 points and 9.8 rebounds across 39 games.
The Celtics have lost Luke Kornet and traded away Kristaps Porzingis, with Al Horford‘s return uncertain. This situation leaves Neemias Queta, Chris Boucher, and Xavier Tillman ahead of Garza, making it possible for him to step into a starting role.
Nigel Hayes-Davis, Phoenix Suns
Hayes-Davis is a strong candidate for this year’s breakout star title, having excelled internationally after not playing in the NBA since the 2017/18 season. The Suns secured him with a guaranteed deal following his impressive 15.1 points per game at Fenerbahce, providing him with ample opportunity on a restructured Phoenix roster.
Jaylen Clark, Minnesota Timberwolves
The Timberwolves selected Clark with the 53rd pick in the 2023 draft and opted to have him sit out the season for injury recovery. After making his debut last year, Clark showed promise as a reliable backup, averaging 4.1 points in 13.1 minutes over 40 games.
Following the departure of Nickeil Alexander-Walker to Atlanta, the Wolves will rely more on younger players to secure their positions, positioning Clark among those expected to gain more playing time alongside emerging stars like Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr..
Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies
Spencer has made the most of his opportunities with the Grizzlies and their G League team. Over just 10.1 minutes per game last season, he averaged 4.2 points. In his eight G League games, he shined with averages of 23.5 points and 3.5 assists while boasting impressive shooting percentages of 53.8% from the field and 49.3% from beyond the arc.
Drafted by Memphis last year with the 53rd overall pick, Spencer spent all of last season on a two-way contract but earned a standard deal after his standout performances. With a roster full of rotation-ready players, Spencer may still find chances for bench minutes following the exit of Desmond Bane.
