30 NBA players face pivotal seasons as rosters shift

The 2026-27 NBA season begins with a distinct focus on individual progression for thirty specific players. ESPN has identified these athletes as being positioned to take the next step in their careers, ranging from first-time MVP contenders to players moving from the bench to the starting lineup. The list is organized into four tiers based on current credentials and the specific circumstances driving their projected improvement.

At the top of the hierarchy are players aiming for their first MVP award. Victor Wembanyama enters the season as a prime candidate after finishing third in MVP voting last year and leading the San Antonio Spurs to the Finals at age 22. The French center must refine his isolation scoring and become a more consistent closer to claim the title. Luka Doncic of the Lakers also faces a strong opportunity to break through. The 27-year-old has never finished higher than third in MVP voting, but a new supporting cast tailored to his strengths and a higher usage rate following LeBron James' departure could change that. His health remains the primary variable, as the Lakers need 50-plus wins for his candidacy to hold water.

Cade Cunningham of the Pistons and Anthony Edwards of the Timberwolves round out the top tier. Cunningham, the 2021 No. 1 pick, finished fifth in MVP voting after leading Detroit to 60 wins and the top seed in the East. Edwards, also a former No. 1 pick, has not yet reached the top five in voting but has led Minnesota to multiple deep playoff runs. With LaMelo Ball joining him, Edwards has a chance to win a scoring title. Tyrese Maxey of the 76ers completes the group, having increased his scoring average in each of his first six seasons and earned his first All-NBA nod in 2026. Playing alongside the aging James and Jaylen Brown, Maxey is positioned for greater national attention.

The second tier features All-Stars looking to become superstars. Scottie Barnes of the Raptors is expected to show his full range now that Kawhi Leonard is back in the fold. Jalen Williams' serious ankle injury creates an opening for Chet Holmgren of the Thunder to take on more offensive responsibility. Holmgren, the 2022 No. 2 pick, is considered the league's best rim protector after Wembanyama. Biyombo Johnson of the Hawks, who received the keys to the offense after Trae Young left, must convert his fantasy basketball production into a real playoff run to solidify his reputation.

In the third tier, players are aiming for their first All-Star selection. Cooper Flagg, the 2026 Rookie of the Year, enters his second season with a new coach in Dusty May and a healthy Kyrie Irving. Flagg, 19, led Dallas in points, rebounds, assists, and steals last season. A shoulder injury suffered recently adds a layer of uncertainty to his campaign. Austin Reaves of the Lakers, who signed a four-year, $180 million extension this summer, is positioned as a reliable No. 2 option. Amen Thompson of the Rockets, who signed a five-year, $208 million deal, is set for a more stable role with Fred VanVleet returning to the lineup. Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper of the Spurs, Jaden McDaniels of the Timberwolves, and Brandon Miller of the Hornets also make this list. Miller, the 2023 No. 2 pick, signed a five-year, $209 million extension earlier this month after LaMelo Ball was traded away.

The final tier consists of players moving from the second unit to the starting lineup. Jontay Jerome of the Grizzlies opened the season with a career-high 45 points against the Utah Jazz. The 29-year-old guard was a finalist for Sixth Man of the Year with the Cavaliers in 2025. Naz Reid, traded from the Timberwolves to the Hornets, is positioned as a frontcourt starter and veteran leader. Cason Wallace of the Thunder has taken over the perimeter defense role previously held by Luguentz Dort. Wallace signed a five-year, $139 million contract and must grow as a ballhandler and outside shooter to match that investment. Jordan Maluach of the Suns started opening night after Mark Williams underwent shoulder surgery. The 20-year-old center is viewed as a crucial piece for Phoenix's long-term future given his 7-foot-1 frame.