Every NBA season brings a new wave of breakout stars, and these second-year NBA sophomores are often the ones who make the biggest jump. After getting their first taste of the league, they head into their sophomore season with more confidence, a better understanding of the game and, in many cases, a much bigger role.
Not every rookie hits the ground running. Some spend their first season adjusting to the speed of the NBA, while others battle injuries or play limited minutes behind established veterans. By Year 2, those early growing pains are often behind them, creating the perfect opportunity for a breakout season.
With the 2026-27 season approaching, several members of last year’s rookie class look ready to take that next step. Here are the sophomores who have the talent, opportunity and momentum to take a significant step forward this season.
The Future Superstars
Cooper Flagg (Dallas Mavericks)
Few second-year players have entered a season with as much hype as Cooper Flagg. He lived up to expectations as a rookie, showing he can impact games on both ends of the floor with his scoring, playmaking and defensive instincts. Now comes the next challenge.
With a full NBA season under his belt and another offseason to develop, Flagg will be expected to take on an even bigger role for the Mavericks. If he continues on his current trajectory, don’t be surprised if he finds himself in the MVP conversation sooner rather than later.
Dylan Harper (San Antonio Spurs)
Playing alongside Victor Wembanyama naturally puts Dylan Harper in the spotlight, but he’s more than just the Spurs’ second option. Harper showed flashes of being a confident playmaker and scorer during his rookie season, and another year of experience should only accelerate his development.
As his chemistry with Wembanyama continues to grow, San Antonio could have one of the NBA’s most exciting young duos. Harper has all the tools to develop into an elite young guard and help guide the Spurs to an NBA title in the very near future.
Ready for a Breakout
VJ Edgecombe (Philadelphia 76ers)
VJ Edgecombe entered the league with a reputation as an elite athlete, but he quickly proved there’s much more to his game. His energy, defensive intensity and ability to attack the basket made him a valuable contributor as a rookie, even while adjusting to the NBA.
Heading into Year 2, the arrival of LeBron James has transformed expectations in Philadelphia. With the 76ers now considered the favourites to win the Eastern Conference, a leap from Edgecombe could provide the kind of depth they’ll need to compete for a championship. He’s definitely one of the NBA sophomores to keep an eye on this season.
Kon Knueppel (Charlotte Hornets)
Most fans know Kon Knueppel for his outside shooting, but there’s much more to his game than just knocking down three-pointers. He displayed impressive court vision, high basketball IQ and a willingness to make the right play throughout his rookie campaign.
As Charlotte continues building around its young core, Knueppel should have even more opportunities to expand his offensive game and take on a larger role. Another step forward this season would further strengthen the Hornets’ foundation and solidify Knueppel’s place as one of the league’s most promising young wings.
Ace Bailey (Utah Jazz)
Few players from the 2025 draft class possess the upside of Ace Bailey. The athletic wing showed flashes of his scoring ability as a rookie, while also demonstrating the length and versatility needed to become a two-way impact player.
Utah’s rebuilding timeline should allow Bailey to play through mistakes while taking on a much bigger offensive role this season. A productive sophomore campaign would be another major step toward establishing himself as the franchise player the Jazz hope he can become.
Bigger Roles, Bigger Expectations
Collin Murray-Boyles (Toronto Raptors)
Collin Murray-Boyles may not have entered the league with the same level of hype as some of his classmates, but his well-rounded game gives him plenty of long-term potential. His defensive versatility, physicality and willingness to do the little things made a positive impression during his rookie season.
Toronto has the pieces to become one of the NBA’s top defensive teams, and Murray-Boyles could play a significant role in making that happen. As his minutes increase and his offensive game continues to develop, he’ll have the opportunity to establish himself as an impactful NBA defender.
Egor Demin (Brooklyn Nets)
Standing at 6-foot-9 with the skills of a guard, Egor Demin brings a unique skill set that few players can match. His size, court vision and passing ability stood out during his rookie season, giving the Nets another intriguing playmaker to build around.
The biggest question entering Year 2 is whether Demin can become more aggressive as a scorer without sacrificing the playmaking that makes him so effective. Finding that balance could elevate him from an intriguing prospect into a versatile young star.
Jeremiah Fears (New Orleans Pelicans)
Confidence has never been an issue for Jeremiah Fears. The dynamic guard showed flashes of his ability to create shots, attack the rim and make plays with the ball in his hands throughout his rookie season.
Entering the 2026-27 season, improving his decision-making and overall consistency will be just as important as increasing his scoring numbers. A strong sophomore campaign would give the Pelicans another reliable backcourt weapon and further cement Fears as a key piece of the franchise’s long-term plans.