NFL
By: Joe Cardoso
With a new NBA season coming fast, it’s time to look for some names that will be major factors in their team’s success. From trying to live up to a draft position to stepping into a new role, these are 5 players I expect to become household names and fixtures on highlight reels. Like any other professional sports league, it takes time and the right fit for players to showcase what they can do. In an era where we want rings and all-league spots asap, it is hard to wait and see what a player will do when given a chance. Few organizations run like the OKC Thunder, who allow players to grow and learn the league. I wonder if them hosting the trophy changes that mindset, anyway, let’s get to the list, shall we?
Ausar Thompson-Detroit Pistons: I picked him based on what I saw from him last year and also due to his potential impact and opportunity. Thompson is quickly becoming a standout defender and has underrated passing skills. He is far from a threat as an outside shooter, but makes up for it with his ability to clean up around the basket and a true lob threat. We will have to see if his three-point shot can improve just a little bit to maybe keep the defense honest against him. He makes the perfect running mate for Cade Cunningham, who is a proven stud in the league.
Cam Whitmore-Washington Wizards: The Houston Rockets had a LOT of talent on the roster, so finding playing time was tough. In Washington, which is in the middle of a complete rebuild that will NOT be a problem against the theme of opportunity and potential. Whitmore was highly ranked by many coming into the draft and has already been tossed aside just as quickly. I love his scoring ability and also hate his shot selection at times. He is decent from deep and can attack the rim, getting to the line. Being with a team that isn’t trying to make the postseason will give him a longer leash, and the coaching staff will work on his 1 1 skills.
Brandon Miller-Charlotte Hornets: We have seen flashes of what type of player he could be, but injuries and lack of small-market love have kept him off most people’s radars. Year 3 should be the year we all remember why he needs to be looked at. He will be a solid defender and also isn’t just a scoring he can create for others as well. Hopefully, the summer he was able to bulk up more and be able to take contact and not just finish but stay ON the floor. Miller is a case of a guy who just needs to grow into an NBA player, and the rest will fall into place, and The Hornets will give him a fair shot. We could be looking at one of the NBA’s best young wings.
Shaedon Sharpe- Portland Trailblazers: Sharpe is a new school guard and is dripping with the traits GMs and hoop heads love. Coming off a season where he averaged 18.5 ppg, this is year 4, and a new contract is on the table for a player who can make the game look easy at times. Portland needs scoring punch and better defense, two things it can do without a doubt. Jrue Holiday and Damien Lillard both will take him under their radar and help him level up.
Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs: I know you are thinking, what Joe? But hear me out. Wemby is not of this world, but we are still waiting for that POP from him. It is great to see him healthy and happy playing ball, and I see a transformation in his mind and body, which is a problem for the rest of the league. When you look at this Spurs roster, how do you not smile and get excited? Training with the greats like KG and Hakeem is never a bad idea, and he gave his mind an offseason workout as well, spending time with monks in China. What does all that mean? I hope to see him get more comfortable in his 7’4 frame and also gain improved footwork and balance. The good thing about Wemby is that he does’ have to carry the load alone due to the other pieces the Spurs have.
Perhaps the best quote of the night from #Spurs star Victor Wembanyama: “I’ve turned down shots I can make with my eyes closed. But that was to get one of my teammates a shot he can make in his sleep.” #PorVida
— Matt Guzman (@mattgzman) October 7, 2025
This article could have been 25 young players to watch for, with the amount of young talent in the NBA right now, as we look for the next guy to carry the league forward. Some names I have to mention are:
Cooper Flagg
Dylan Harper
Dyson Daniels
Stephon Castle
Jalen Johnson
Kyshawn George
What do you think? Hit me up, JoeCardoso301, on all platforms. And catch myself along with my cohosts, Kevin Lucas and Melo Williams, on our podcast “The Hoop Heads” available on all platforms.
