New Opportunity, New Star? Ten NBA Players Who Could Breakout

By Isaac Harris

Jul 21, 2016

May 30, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Harrison Barnes (40) celebrates after making a three-point basket during the third quarter in game seven of the Western conference finals of the NBA Playoffs against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Thunder 96-88. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

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Apr 6, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic guard Victor Oladipo (5) drives to the net in front of Detroit Pistons guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (right) during the first quarter of a basketball game at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /

5.) Victor Oladipo, Oklahoma City Thunder

In a move that many thought would help sway Kevin Durant back to OKC, Oladipo found himself moving from Orlando to Oklahoma in return for Serge Ibaka.

Having spent his whole (short) career in Orlando, the former number 2 overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft has never had an elite teammate…until now.

Pairing up with Russell Westbrook could do wonders for Oladipo as he finally plays with a legitimate point guard who can run the court with him. Their athleticism on the wing together will be a nightmare for teams to game plan for on a nightly basis.

With Durant now in Golden State, Oladipo now takes the ‘Robin’ role to Westbrook’s ‘Batman’ as he will be counted on to help Westbrook on the offensive end. From the open shots generated by Westbrook’s penetration, to the fast paced style to be ran in OKC, Oladipo could have a breakout season this year.

Next: Barnes