Every NBA season brings fresh storylines. While superstars often dominate the spotlight, it is the role players who can flip the script of a game or even a playoff series.
Heading into 2025–26, several names stand out as potential difference-makers. Their growth and consistency could change the way their teams operate, and for fans who follow team depth charts or even check bookmaker ratings, these players are worth tracking closely.
Ryan Dunn: Phoenix Suns’ Defensive Spark
Ryan Dunn heads into his second season with the Suns carrying higher expectations.
Known for strong on-ball defense and nonstop energy, he already shows the ability to guard several positions. Coaches like his instincts, but he needs a steadier jumper to become a real two-way option. A slight bump in three-point percentage would help Phoenix trust him late in games. His athleticism lets him contest shots and run the floor in transition. Dunn is shaping up as a young role player who could turn into a fan favorite.
Key strengths Dunn brings:
- Relentless perimeter defense against guards and wings
- Quick reactions on help coverage
- Transition offense fueled by hustle plays
If he keeps building confidence, he can grow into one of the most impactful young defenders in the West.
Kevin Porter Jr./Gary Trent Jr.: Milwaukee’s Saving Grace(s)?
It has been a disappointing few seasons for the Milwaukee Bucks.
The NBA never really got to see the trio of Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton and Damian Lillard in a playoff setting. Middleton was dealt to Washington for Kyle Kuzma earlier this year, and Lillard was released this offseason and has since returned to Portland.
This opens the door for one or both of Kevin Porter Jr. and Gary Trent Jr. to step into significant roles alongside Giannis this season.
The Bucks acquired KPJ from the Clippers in February, and he flashed greatness despite a rather quiet playoff series. With a full training camp and a fresh start, he is expected to assume the starting point-guard role.
What Kevin Porter Jr. Gives the Bucks
- Facilitation they have otherwise lacked alongside Giannis
- Lane-slashing attack ability
- Strong finishing at the rim
Gary Trent Jr. May Be The Top Role Player to Watch in 2025-26
The other Junior on the team, Gary Trent Jr., was one of the few pieces that kept Milwaukee alive in their first-round series against Indiana.
Many expected he would sign elsewhere for more money, but he re-signed with the Bucks and poises to be the No. 2 scoring option behind Giannis this season.
He absolutely detonated from deep all season, and Bucks fans are excited for his return.
https://twitter.com/BucksLead/status/1939879011296923974
Deni Avdija: Portland’s Versatile Wing
Deni Avdija has climbed rankings and is now one of the league’s most promising small forwards. His game keeps expanding, with Portland leaning on him to attack mismatches and create offense. Defensively, he’s tougher to target in pick-and-rolls thanks to his size and footwork. What sets him apart is his growing confidence as a playmaker. With more touches, he could become the connector Portland needs.
Avdija’s growing impact includes:
- More efficient scoring in the paint
- Better reads as a secondary playmaker
- Solid rebounding presence on the wing
Portland’s young core depends on him to bridge gaps between guards and bigs, and he has shown he’s ready for the challenge. He’s been killing it at EuroBasket this summer.
Jrue Holiday: Veteran Stability in Portland
While Avdija represents youth, Jrue Holiday adds leadership and defense. Even in his mid-30s, he remains one of the most trusted guards. Portland will count on him to slow down opponents, but his calm decision-making also matters. Holiday rarely forces shots and steadies the team in tight moments. His playoff record gives the Blazers an edge, and though not flashy, his presence lifts everyone around him.
Holiday is the definition of a player who makes teammates better. For Portland, his steadying influence helps balance the growing pains of a roster still developing its identity.
Dyson Daniels: Defensive Engine in Atlanta
Dyson Daniels made headlines by winning Most Improved Player last season, and his defensive stats tell the story.
He led the league in steals per game and was near the top in combined steals and blocks. That level of activity disrupts offenses and sets the tone for Atlanta. Beyond defense, Daniels has worked on decision-making as a secondary ball-handler. His ability to push the pace and feed teammates creates easy looks. Atlanta’s coaching staff sees him as a cornerstone of their defensive schemes.
Daniels’ defensive profile
- League leader in steals
- Elite anticipation on passing lanes
- Strong recovery ability after screens
His growth shows that he is more than a role player. Still, his main value is giving Atlanta a reliable stopper who fuels their transition attack.
Closing Notes
Role players rarely get the same recognition as stars, but their value is clear. Ryan Dunn brings defensive fire, Kevin Porter Jr. and Gary Trent Jr. add an offensive boost to a Bucks team in desperate need of it, Deni Avdija provides versatility, Jrue Holiday offers leadership, and Dyson Daniels fuels his team with defensive tenacity.
Each of them owns a skill that can swing games. The 2025–26 season is set to highlight just how vital role players are to team success.
Leave a comment