5 NBA players in the Eastern Conference who could have a breakout season in 2021-22

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#3 Matisse Thybulle

Matisse Thybulle and Joe Ingles after winning a game in the Tokyo Olympics.

The Philadelphia 76ers are in the middle of a standoff with NBA All-Star guard Ben Simmons. It is an impasse that could drag on until the trade deadline. With uncertainty surrounding the franchise, Thybulle is going to be a a critical part of this team.

The All-NBA second team selectee is only bound to get better. If the 76ers are going to be without their top perimeter defender, Thybulle’s part could only grow. Philadelphia continues to rely on the gritty Danny Green for defensive stops and shooting. If Thybulle manages to improve his 3P%, Doc Rivers would have to insert him into the starting lineup.

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#2 Tyler Herro

Tyler Herro hustling for the ball against Giannis Antetokounmpo.

An argument could be made that Tyler Herro had already “broken out.” He was so good in the 2020 NBA Eastern Conference Finals that it is easy to forget that Herro is still entering his third year and still trying to be consistent. His three-point shooting, free throw and eFG% have all gone down last season.

The chances of Herro getting back to the form he displayed before are great. He is a confident player who backs up his own expectations with hard work and determination. An improved Tyler Herro coming off the bench or starting for the Heat next season would be something to watch out for.

If he is consistent and regains his shooting form, the Miami Heat could be a dark horse to claim the NBA Eastern Conference championship.

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#1 Robert Williams

Robert Williams helping put pressure on TJ Warren.

The third year center out of Texas A&M is primed for the biggest break out season. Boston put their trust in Robert Williams when they signed him to a hefty extension this offseason. Despite Al Horford’s return to the Cs’ roster, the Celtics will rely heavily in Williams’ further development to challenge the Bucks and the Nets.

The work and results Robert Williams achieved in last year’s playoff series against the Brooklyn Nets confirmed just how valuable he can be for the Celtics to become a legit contender. He borders on the All-NBA defense and has become an offensive hub for Boston.

Even if Williams just duplicates his playoff accomplishments against the Nets for a large part of next season, he would be a surefire breakout star in the NBA.