It is nearly playoff basketball time, and today we’re looking into the breakout players who transformed their teams—and many fantasy rosters—this season. From elite rookie shooting to veteran career-highs, these five names took their game to the next level.
KON KNUEPPEL, CHA, SG/SF
Drafted 4th overall, KON KNUEPPEL has been a revelation for the Charlotte Hornets. His otherworldly three-point shooting (253 out of 577 attempts) has propelled Charlotte to a top-4 offensive rating. As the Hornets chase their first playoff appearance in a decade, Knueppel’s impact as the Rookie of the Year frontrunner is undeniable.
NICKEIL ALEXANDER-WALKER, ATL, PG/SG
The Hawks’ $62 million investment in NICKEIL ALEXANDER-WALKER (NAW) appears worth every cent. Stepping into the void left by TRAE YOUNG’S departure to Washington, NAW hit career-highs across every major category. His defensive tenacity and playmaking helped secure a 5-seed for Atlanta’s young core.
NEEMIAS QUETA, BOS, C
Entrusted with the starting center spot after AL HORFORD’S move to Golden State, NEEMIAS QUETA repaid the Celtics with elite production. Starting 67 games, the Portuguese big man soared to new heights in counting stats, providing the interior presence Boston needs heading into the postseason.
COLLIN GILLESPIE, PHX, PG
While the Suns were expected to struggle following the KEVIN DURANT and BRADLEY BEAL drama, COLLIN GILLESPIE has been the steady hand running the show. On a team featuring DEVIN BOOKER and DILLON BROOKS, Gillespie’s reliable shooting and floor generalship have kept Phoenix firmly in the playoff hunt.
RYAN ROLLINS, MIL, PG
Despite the Bucks’ tumultuous season and GIANNIS ANTETOKOUNMPO playing only 36 games, RYAN ROLLINS has been a massive bright spot. Starting 63 games, Rollins averaged 17.1 points and 5.6 assists, proving he is worth every bit of his new three-year, $12 million deal.
