5 NBA players having breakout 2016-17 seasons

By Roje Smith | Nov 16, 2016

ATLANTA, GA - FEBRUARY 20: DeMar DeRozan #10 of the Toronto Raptors dunks against Pero Antic #6 of the Atlanta Hawks at Philips Arena on February 20, 2015 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

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Oct 14, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns forward T.J. Warren (12) handles the ball in the first half against the Dallas Mavericks at Talking Stick Resort Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Stewart-USA TODAY Sports /

2. T.J. Warren – SF – Phoenix Suns

College basketball fans are aware of the incredible scoring talent that T.J. Warren has. He spent two years at North Carolina State where he experienced a good first year and an even better second year. Warren’s minutes were limited as a freshman, but he was still selected to the ACC All-Freshman team. However, as a sophomore, he took his game to new heights by averaging 24.9 points, 7.1 rebounds and 1.8 steals per game. It led to him being named the 2014 ACC Player of the Year and a second team All-American.

After his stellar sophomore campaign, Warren entered the 2014 NBA Draft and was selected 14th overall by the Phoenix Suns. He spent the majority of his first year bouncing back and forth between the NBA and the D-League. However, he showed signs of his potential as a rookie. Warren’s game continued to improve in his second year, but his minutes were limited as a backup. He also suffered a broken right foot that cut his 2015-16 season short.

Things have changed a bit for Warren so far in his third season. He is the starting small forward for the Suns and receiving over 35 minutes a game. The result has been Warren experiencing his breakout season. He is currently averaging 20 points, five rebounds and 2.1 steals per game.

A lot of talk surrounding Phoenix’s young squad has focused on Eric Bledsoe and Devin Booker. However, Warren has actually been Phoenix’s best player so far. The sky is the limit for this talented wingman who should soon become a household name.

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