Ray Allen, J.R. Smith, JaVale McGee, Caron Butler: Impact players to look out for next NBA season Part 1
8. J.R.Smith (New York Knicks)
On his day, J.R.Smith can set the court ablaze with his prolific scoring. But how often does that day come is the question which will define how good of an impact player he will be next season. And in the bigger picture it will also decide how well New York Knicks do this season.
His off the field problems aside, when in groove Smith can be devastating and if he gets a good start to this season, the Knicks will get a head start. With a side that is already looking formidable in the presence of Carmelo Anthony, Amare’ Stoudemire and Tyson Chandler, Smith’s performance can be the deciding factor for their hopes this season.
7. Caron Butler (Los Angeles Clippers)
Los Angeles Clippers were the team to watch out last year and Caron Butler’s role in that can never be undermined. However, when he was limited due to an injury to his hand in the playoffs, Clippers performance saw a major downturn.
This season again, his performance will be critical to the Clippers’ show. Everyone in the Basketball fraternity now knows what Blake Griffin or Chris Paul can bring to the Clippers’ game and in that scenario Butler can be the secret weapon.
6. Ray Allen (Miami Heat)
Miami gave a major boost to their title repeat hopes when they signed Ray Allen from the Boston Celtics this off-season. Last year Shane Battier was the player Miami were counting on to bring dynamism to their game and even though he remains an important part of the system, if Ray Allen remains fit, he can bring a lot of scoring firepower to Miami’s camp which will make it extremely difficult for other teams.
With or without him, Miami Heat is still a great side, but Allen’s scoring and the resulting court space, might just be the tonic LeBron James and Dwyane Wade need to really unleash havoc next season.
5. JaVale McGee (Denver Nuggets)
Denver Nuggets is a side thronged with potential superstars and out of all those, JaVale McGee is arguably the most promising prospect.
McGee has prospered under George Karl’s offensive system and showed signs of brilliance in the first round of playoffs against the Los Angeles Lakers last season. He is a seven footer, who can dominate on the paint. The offensive potential is also there, but needs to be polished.
If Karl and his team of assistants manage to do that, then Denver Nuggets can really spring a few surprises.
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