The regular season is nearing its end, and soon it will be time for the playoff teams to compete. Teams that fail to make the playoffs will need to start planning for next season.
In recent seasons, many young rookies have emerged in the league, each of them considered a prodigy with the potential to become superstars and rule the entire league together. Among these, there are five young players whose futures are particularly promising.
Green: Green's inclusion on the list came as a surprise to many, as his scoring performance over the past three seasons has been inconsistent. However, his average of 27.8 points throughout March alone was enough to generate high expectations. Unlike the other five players, Green is also the most likely to disappoint; his future could either see him become a super scorer or gradually fade into obscurity.
For Green, there are issues with both his personal abilities and the way his team has cultivated him. However, based on his performance in the second half of this season and Udoka's experimentation with the lineup, it is believed that a more suitable tactical system will be in place next season, which could lead to Jalen Green truly rising to prominence.
Edwards: The number one pick in 2020, Edwards was initially considered a bust during the first half of his rookie season but was later seen as a future superstar by the second half, demonstrating his adaptability to the game and natural talent.
This season marks the final year of Edwards' rookie contract, and he has led his team to become one of the strongest contenders for the championship. With an average of 26.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and 1.3 steals, he has already been included in discussions about the best shooting guards in the league. Edwards is a well-rounded player on both offense and defense, and with continued refinement in the playoffs, he will soon become one of the top-tier stars in the league.
Alexander: Alexander has been a consistent presence among the top three in MVP discussions this season. Even if he doesn't ultimately receive the honor, it doesn't diminish his strength; it simply means that Jokic has been even more exceptional ahead of him. Alexander has been in the league for six years now and has grown from a promising youngster to an All-Star level star. He continues to develop, averaging 30.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, 6.2 assists, and 2.1 steals this season. He has led the young Thunder to the top of the Western Conference and even has a chance to stand at the pinnacle of the league this season. Alexander's future extends beyond being an All-Star; he has the potential to reach the ranks of superstars.
Miller: Miller's selection as the second overall pick in the 2023 draft over Henderson speaks volumes about his talent and potential. This season, Miller has averaged 17.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.4 assists. He is not only an excellent scorer and passer but also a formidable defender. In just his first season, Miller is already being compared to stars like George and Durant. While the Hornets' poor record this season can be attributed to injuries, Miller's growth has exceeded most people's expectations. This perennially underperforming team now has real hope for a resurgence, and that hope is Miller, who has a minimum future expectation of All-Star status.
Wembanyama: As the super number one pick in 2023, Wembanyama's performance this season has certainly lived up to his status. To date, he has averaged 21.3 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.2 steals, and 3.6 blocks, with the latter ranking first in the entire league. This is astonishing for a rookie in his first year of his career.
What makes Wembanyama truly terrifying is his 223 cm height combined with his agility. He possesses excellent offensive skills and scoring ability, as well as a good passing vision. Even against offensive powerhouses like Jokic, Wembanyama's defense proves impenetrable.
Wembanyama has already shown absolute talent in his rookie season, and his future as a superstar may only be the starting point. He could very well follow in James' footsteps to become the face of the league for the next 15 years and dominate the NBA.