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Starting Shooting Guard On Every NBA Team For 2025-26 Season

Following our article about the starting point guard on every NBA team for the 2025-26 season, we will delve into who will start at the off-guard spot. The shooting guard position hasn't changed much compared to recent seasons because letting the ball loose and aiming to score will be the primary objective.

In the upcoming campaign, a host of talented shooting guards rank among the best in the NBA due to their scoring abilities. Looking ahead, every team has at least one player they can rely on to score points and contribute in other areas, such as perimeter defense.

Atlanta Hawks - Dyson Daniels

New Orleans Pelicans guard Dyson Daniels goes up for a layup during the 2024-25 season.

Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

2024-25 Averages: 14.1 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 4.4 APG, 3.0 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Dyson Daniels finished last season establishing himself as a multifaceted wing: scorer, playmaker, but dominant defender who led the NBA in SPG and won Most Improved Player. He’s still raw as a scorer, but his length, motor, and instincts made him a defensive plus and a useful rotation piece late in games.

In 2025-26, the Hawks should lean into Daniels’ defensive versatility. Expect him to take on more minutes matching up with wings and guards, especially on nights the Hawks want to hide weaker defenders, including his backcourt partner, Trae Young.

Boston Celtics - Anfernee Simons

Portland Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons (1) dribbles down the court against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half at Paycom Center.

Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 19.3 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 4.8 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Anfernee Simons showed last season that when his jumper is cooking, he’s a real offensive weapon. On defense, he’s still a work in progress, but offensively, he’s proven to be more than a role shooter: he can create for himself and heat up quickly.

For the 2025-26 season, the Celtics will hope Simons becomes their instant-offense trigger in late-game situations in the absence of Jayson Tatum. If he can improve on-ball defense and cut down on streaky shot selection, he could see increased responsibilities in pick-and-roll coverage and secondary creation.

Brooklyn Nets - Terance Mann

Feb 24, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Terance Mann (14) shoots a free throw against the Miami Heat during the second half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 7.7 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 1.8 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Terance Mann’s 2024-25 campaign reinforced his identity as a rugged, regular-season-tested wing who defends, rebounds, and hits key shots. He’s not the flashiest scorer, but he brings toughness and efficient isolation scoring in short bursts.

We expect Mann to remain a glue-guy staple, a starting wing who closes games and draws tough matchups. The tanking Brooklyn Nets will need Mann to at least help keep the team respectable in matchups, but we don't anticipate him having a major impact.

Charlotte Hornets - Brandon Miller

Jan 12, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Charlotte Hornets forward Brandon Miller (24) against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Charlotte Hornets forward Brandon Miller (24) against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center.

Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 21.0 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Brandon Miller arrived with elite upside and showed flashes of advanced scoring instincts in 2024-25: capable of creating his own shot and operating off pick-and-rolls while also stepping into catch-and-shoot roles. As a young stud, he also had the finishing and length teams covet.

The 2025-26 arc for Miller is about refinement: adding strength for better finishing at the rim, tightening his handle in traffic, and expanding playmaking. The Hornets’ development staff will emphasize his shot selection and defensive discipline. If he becomes even a modestly reliable 3-and-D wing, he’s on a fast track to All-Star conversations.

Chicago Bulls - Coby White

Chicago Bulls guard Coby White (0) drives to the basket against the Charlotte Hornets during the second half at Spectrum Center.

Mandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 20.4 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 4.5 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Coby White’s 2024-25 season was a throwback to his quick-shot-creator role: electric first step, able to get into the lane, but still occasionally turnover-prone and streaky from deep. He’s a dynamic bench spark or a starting secondary ball-handler if he can stabilize decision-making.

Heading into 2025-26, the big question for the Bulls is role clarity: is White a sixth-man engine or a co-starter alongside a primary creator? If he narrows down his strengths, playmaking in transition and catch-and-shoot threes, he’ll be an offensive weapon. Defensively, incremental improvements in principles and awareness could push him from good to dependable.

Cleveland Cavaliers - Donovan Mitchell

May 13, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) reacts during the second half of game five against the Indiana Pacers in the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena.

Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 24.0 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Donovan Mitchell remains the Cavaliers’ go-to bucket-getter and chief closer. In 2024-25, he produced volume scoring nights and showed an ability to carry offenses through playoff stretches, but his efficiency sometimes dipped under heavy usage.

For 2025-2,6 Mitchell’s narrative is about championship-level supporting cast optimization: if Cleveland gives him better slashers and shooters to space the floor, his efficiency should elevate. Conversely, if the roster stagnates, the onus stays on him to generate offense and take tough shots.

Dallas Mavericks - Klay Thompson

Apr 18, 2025; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson (31) reacts during the third quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 14.0 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 2.0 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Klay Thompson’s role in Dallas in 2024-25 was quite impressive despite being a difficult campaign: off-ball master with elite catch-and-shoot gravity and veteran spacing that unhooks defenses. Shot creation is secondary; his value is in elite-level movement and doorway shooting (39.1% 3-PT FG).

In 2025-26, expect Thompson to continue as the primary floor spacer; the key is whether he maintains athletic health and shot volume. The Mavericks will plant their offense around Kyrie Irving (once he returns), Anthony Davis, and even Cooper Flagg, but Klay’s presence removes clutter for isolation-heavy sets.

Denver Nuggets - Christian Braun

Jan 7, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Christian Braun (0) reacts after a play in the third quarter against the Boston Celtics at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 15.4 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 2.6 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Christian Braun carved out a defensive-minded role in 2024-25, hustle, screens, and occasional offensive creation. He’s not a primary scorer, but he impacts games through energy plays and smart rotation defense, which is why he will start for Denver.

In 2025-26, Braun’s ceiling is as a high-level role player who can start against teams that need size and activity. The Nuggets benefit if he improves his shot confidence, because the team is ready for a very deep playoff run and possibly to win it all.

Detroit Pistons - Jaden Ivey

Nov 29, 2024; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Jaden Ivey (23) dribbles the ball while Indiana Pacers forward Obi Toppin (1) defends in the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 17.6 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 4.0 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Jaden Ivey’s 2024-25 season flashed explosive athleticism and downhill aggression. He’s a natural transition weapon who can create offense at speed, though his decision-making and shot selection still need polish.

For 2025-26, Ivey should be viewed as high-upside: if he adds better pick-and-roll reads and becomes a calmer late-game option, he’s a budding starter who can carry a young Pistons offense. Alongside Cade Cunningham, Ivey should form one of the most intriguing backcourts.

Golden State Warriors - Buddy Hield

Apr 8, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Buddy Hield (7) against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 11.1 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 1.6 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Buddy Hield’s 2024-25 role was clear: a shot-first wing who spaces the floor with catch-and-shoot prowess. Hield fits perfectly next to motion-heavy creators Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green because defenses must respect his release, which is why he will likely start at shooting guard.

Next season, expect Hield to remain a spacing specialist; the Warriors will rely on his volume threes, especially when their primary creators collapse into the paint. The gamble: if his shooting percentage ticked down, the Warriors will tweak lineup timing; if he stays hot, he’s a late-game weapon.

Houston Rockets - Amen Thompson

Houston Rockets forward Amen Thompson (1) walks off the court after the end of the first half against the Denver Nuggets at Toyota Center.

Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 14.1 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 3.8 APG, 1.4 SPG, 1.3 BPG

Amen Thompson’s 2024-25 emergence revolved around playmaking potential and freakish length; he showed flashes as a secondary ball-handler and a disruptive defender. The “streaky youngster” label applies, but the tools are undeniable, and we should see All-Star growth from Amen next season.

With the addition of Kevin Durant, the Rockets will try to accelerate Thompson’s playmaking IQ and shooting consistency. If they invest in spacing around him and he develops a reliable corner three, he can be a primary transition initiator.

Indiana Pacers - Andrew Nembhard

Jun 19, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard (2) dribbles the ball defended by Oklahoma City Thunder guard Alex Caruso (9) in the second quarter during game six of the 2025 NBA Finals at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 10.0 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Andrew Nembhard in 2024-25 was steady, efficient, and quietly excellent as a pick-and-roll conductor and decision maker. He doesn’t dazzle, but he manages pace and picks good shots for himself and teammates. After the Pacers made the Finals last season, Nembhard's spot is safe.

Next season, in the absence of Tyrese Haliburton, Nembhard’s path is to remain the Pacers’ stabilizing floor general: better perimeter shooting and playmaking raise the ceiling. We should see Nembhard's stats go up, but his impact shouldn't change so much because he is as unselfish as it gets.

Los Angeles Clippers - Bradley Beal

Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal (3) against the Brooklyn Nets at Footprint Center.

Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 17.0 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Bradley Beal brought veteran scoring punch in 2024-25: high-usage, skilled creation, and occasional defensive lapses. He’s still a dangerous bucket-getter when healthy and confident.

In 2025-26, the Clippers will hope Beal can stay healthy and share ball-handling duties smartly. The storyline is usage balance. If he coexists with James Harden and Kawhi Leonard, defensive improvement and selective scoring will make him a contender-level complement; if not, efficiency and injury risk could limit him.

Los Angeles Lakers - Austin Reaves

Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) dribbles the ball against the Minnesota Timberwolves during game three of the first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 20.2 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 5.8 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Austin Reaves grew into a trusted creator and clutch shot-maker in 2024-25 for the Lakers, a high-IQ, underrated passer, and fearless late-game contributor. He’s the kind of glue scorer every contender wants, especially as a fringe All-Star third option.

Going into 2025-26, Reaves should see his role locked in as the reliable floor-spacing guard who initiates offense in small-ball lineups. If Reaves keeps making the right cuts and pressure shots, he’s indispensable; if defenses force him to create more, his efficiency will be tested.

Memphis Grizzlies - Kentavious Caldwell-Pope

Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando Magic guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (3) passes the ball against the New Orleans Pelicans in the first quarter at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 8.7 PPG, 2.2 RPG, 1.8 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope returned to the profile of a veteran wing who spaces and defends in 2024-25: reliable perimeter shooter and sound positional defender. He’s a steady veteran presence, but the Memphis Grizzlies might need more than that for next season.

We expect KCP to be a role-player glue piece, a locker-room steadying force who can hit critical threes and take tough defensive assignments. If he keeps his shooting touch, he’s a rotation must; if not, the Grizzlies may look to younger, more athletic alternatives.

Miami Heat forward Andrew Wiggins (22) dribbles the basketball against the Boston Celtics during the second quarter at Kaseya Center.

Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 18.0 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 2.6 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Andrew Wiggins in 2024-25 continued as a high-rebounding wing who can score and defend, a Swiss Army knife for any team's playoff-style rotation. He’s not the alpha but is an excellent tertiary scorer and lock-down option when he is in the right situation.

For 2025-26, Wiggins’ value is unchanged: defensive assignment flexibility and secondary scoring. The Heat’s major need is durability and shot creation, so if Wiggins can't return to an All-Star level (which is probably likely), he could be involved in trade talks.

Milwaukee Bucks - AJ Green

Nov 20, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard AJ Green (20) looks to pass the ball in the third quarter against the Chicago Bulls at Fiserv Forum.

Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 7.4 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 1.5 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Gone are the days of Khris Middleton holding the position down. AJ Green’s 2024-25 season displayed his steady role as a shooting guard with size and smooth perimeter buckets; he’s a team-oriented player more than a star.

Green can continue being a complementary two-way shooting guard by bringing spacing and occasional defensive hustle. However, the Bucks might be asking too much of their undrafted shooter, and we aren't sure of the direction the franchise is heading.

Minnesota Timberwolves - Anthony Edwards

May 26, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) reacts against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first half during game four of the Western Conference Finals for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Target Center.

Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 27.6 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 4.5 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Anthony Edwards took over the reins as the Timberwolves' explosive wing, athletic, improving as a scorer, and increasingly assertive in late-game moments. He's also the best pure shooting guard in the NBA and very likely the next face of the league if he wants that title.

In 2025-26, the Wolves will ask Edwards to be more efficient and consistent as a playmaker; adding core-level decision-making will vault the team deeper into contention. Edwards did great moving the ball, but he is settling too much for the three, and his driving ability could create better looks for his teammates.

New Orleans Pelicans - Jordan Poole

Washington Wizards guard Jordan Poole (13) runs back on defense during the third quarter against the Chicago Bulls at Capital One Arena.

Mandatory Credit: Reggie Hildred-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 20.5 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 4.5 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Jordan Poole’s 2024-25 season had stretches of electric scoring, a high-variance shot-creator who can shift momentum quickly but also goes cold. He’s an offensive ignition switch whose defense is still developing, but that didn't stop the Pelicans from acquiring him.

Still, Poole’s ceiling is a top-tier sixth man or unpredictably dominant starter. If the Pelicans can use him in staggered minutes to maximize his strengths (isolation scoring, pull-up threes), he’ll be dangerous. Otherwise, they might have to live and die by Poole's inconsistencies.

New York Knicks - OG Anunoby

Nov 25, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby (8) celebrates a breakaway score in the second quarter against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 18.0 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 2.2 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.9 BPG

OG Anunoby was truly the Knicks’ defensive backbone in 2024-25, an elite wing defender who also hit timely threes and slotted into a role as a two-way starter. He’s not the primary scorer, but his two-way impact is unquestioned, and his defensive stats as a perimeter defender leap off the page.

Anunoby’s role will continue as the archetypal two-way wing: take the toughest defensive assignment, knock down open threes, and generate secondary offense through cuts and opportunistic drives. Anunoby’s defense will be the Knicks' best counter to star wings during the regular season and playoffs.

Oklahoma City Thunder - Luguentz Dort

May 28, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Luguentz Dort (5) shoots as Minnesota Timberwolves guard Rob Dillingham (4) defends in the fourth quarter during game five of the western conference finals for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 10.1 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 1.6 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Luguentz Dort’s identity was full-tilt defense and increasingly capable offense for the champion Oklahoma City Thunder. Dort is the kind of player teams hate dealing with because of his elite perimeter defense and hunger for hustle plays.

For 2025-26, the All-Defensive Team threat remains a defensive cornerstone; the Thunder will ask him to sustain offensive growth, particularly in catch-and-shoot situations. The Thunder are still the favorites to win it all, and Dort plays a big role in that.

Orlando Magic - Desmond Bane

Memphis Grizzlies guard Desmond Bane (22) reacts in the second half against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena.

Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 19.2 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 5.3 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Desmond Bane in 2024-25 was a sharpshooting combo guard who spaces the floor and crafts efficient scoring lines; he’s one of the league’s premier high-volume, high-efficiency wings. Surprisingly, the Grizzlies didn't feel the need to keep him and moved him for a package that included four first-round picks.

Next season, Bane’s continuity is key. If he keeps improving as a midrange and drive creator, he elevates Orlando’s playoff hopes tremendously. Many aren't talking about Bane as much as other players this offseason, but he could be one of the best offseason pickups in recent history for the Magic.

Philadelphia 76ers - VJ Edgecombe

Jun 25, 2025; Brooklyn, NY, USA; VJ Edgecombe arrives before the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: N/A

VJ Edgecombe, a drafted No. 3 overall pick in 2025, brings youth, length, and upside. In 2024-25, he was still a prospect off the board (pre-draft), with attention for his perimeter skills and defensive frame.

For 2025-26, Edgecombe’s narrative is simple: how quickly can he translate college/Euro promise to NBA minutes? The 76ers will likely thrust him in as a situational wing, defense-first assignments, spot minutes, and a developmental path toward a 3-and-D profile if his shooting stabilizes.

Phoenix Suns - Jalen Green

Feb 3, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green (4) dribbles up court during the first half against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 21.0 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 3.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG

The Rockets gave up on him, but Jalen Green flashed dynamic scoring ability in 2024-25: elite athleticism, fearless drives, and a developing three-point game. He’s raw as a playmaker but possesses offensive potential that the Suns are chasing.

In 2025-26, Green’s storyline centers on becoming a more well-rounded creator and improving shot selection to boost efficiency. If he becomes a reliable secondary creator and keeps his scoring accuracy, the Suns will have a dangerous, switchable guard alongside Devin Booker.

If Green continues showing inconsistencies, however, he might be traded. That's the line the former No. 2 overall pick has to deal with.

Portland Trail Blazers - Jrue Holiday

Apr 20, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics guard Jrue Holiday (4) controls the ball during the second half against the Orlando Magic at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara - Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara- Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 11.1 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Jrue Holiday in 2024-25 continued to be a high-IQ guard, balancing on-ball creation with lockdown defense. Even with age, he’s a stabilizer whose decision-making and clutch defense remain elite, but the Celtics were nearly forced to move him to shed salary this offseason.

For 2025-26, Holiday’s role is veteran leadership: mentor to young guards in Portland and an anchor when things get interesting if Damian Lillard returns from an Achilles injury. Portland will likely still have to lean on emerging guards to fill creative minutes as Holiday might not be capable of playing 30 MPG.

Sacramento Kings - Malik Monk

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Malik Monk (0) brings the ball up court against the New Orleans Pelicans during the first half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 17.2 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 5.6 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Malik Monk’s 2024-25 performances were typical of his profile: streaky but explosive scoring when given freedom and space. He’s a catch-and-shoot threat who can also create on the move, and the Kings will feel fortunate to still have a bona fide 17 PPG scorer who is willing to come off the bench if needed.

In 2025-26, Monk should continue as a lightning-quick scoring option off the bench or as a starter in staggered minutes that exploit his shooting. However, it is also likely that the shooting guard becomes dangled in trade rumors if the Kings don't come out of the gate hot.

San Antonio Spurs - Stephon Castle

San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) looks on during the first quarter of the game against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center.

Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 14.7 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 4.1 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Stephon Castle showed promise in 2024-25 as a young guard with impressive offensive instincts and defensive length; he’s a developmental piece with upside for a Spurs culture that favors teaching. Capturing Rookie of the Year, the Spurs will likely place Castle on the untouchable list.

His growth next season should be about refinement in the form of more consistent shot mechanics and smarter playmaking reads. In San Antonio’s system, he’ll get chances to grow as a primary ball-handler in developmental lineups alongside some stars, including Victor Wembanyama and De'Aaron Fox.

Toronto Raptors - RJ Barrett

Toronto Raptors guard RJ Barrett (9) dribbles the ball in the first half against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 21.1 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 5.4 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.3 BPG

RJ Barrett’s 2024-25 season leaned on physical scoring and verticality; he’s a strong slasher and midrange operator who will need to improve creation and efficiency to become an elite wing. For a Raptors team that wants to return to the playoffs, Barrett has to be at a near-All-Star level or risk being involved in trade rumors.

Next season, Barrett’s path should be focused on incremental upgrades: better shot selection, more consistent finishing in traffic, and added strength. The Raptors will rely on him for secondary scoring; if he cuts down on turnovers and improves shot IQ, he becomes a more foundational two-way piece.

Utah Jazz - Ace Bailey

Mar 12, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Ace Bailey (4) shoots the ball in the second half against the USC Trojans at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: N/A

Ace Bailey’s 2024-25 campaign at the college/prospect level had scouts excited for his shooting stroke and positional versatility. He’s a prospect with upside in spacing and perimeter IQ. Sure, he did not want to be in Utah, but we don't anticipate that affecting his play.

In 2025-26, the Jazz will likely bring him along carefully, giving spot minutes to develop his 3-and-D game. The issue is whether he can translate perimeter shooting to consistent NBA mechanics immediately; success there equals rotation minutes and a potential All-Star down the road.

Washington Wizards - Carlton Carrington

Feb 1, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Washington Wizards guard Carlton Carrington (8) responds after getting called for a foul while playing the Minnesota Timberwolves in the third quarter at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images

Carlton Carrington of the Washington Wizards.

Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 9.8 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 4.4 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Carlton Carrington, a prospect figure in the 2024-25 context, showed enough in pre-draft play to warrant developmental minutes: length, upside as a shooter, and defensive frame. The 2025-26 season will be about acclimation: learning pro schemes, earning trust on pick-and-roll defense, and showing reliable shooting in catch-and-shoot situations.

If he hits consistently, the Wizards have a low-cost rotational wing; if not, he’s a longer-term project. We expect Carrington to show growth nonetheless and start improving as a starting-caliber off-guard moving forward.

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