Cavs player who will shock world with breakout 2026-27 season

The Cleveland Cavaliers are aiming to solidify their position as a contender in the Eastern Conference for the 2026-27 season. After reaching the Eastern Conference Finals last year, they suffered a devastating defeat to the New York Knicks and now must prove their detractors wrong. Evan Mobley is a rising star who could potentially have a breakout season, and there are other young players like Jaylon Tyson, Tyrese Proctor, and Craig Porter Jr. who could also have a breakout year.

However, the player best positioned to have a breakout season for the Cavs is newcomer Peyton Watson Jr. The restricted free agent wing was acquired through a multi-team sign-and-trade deal from the Denver Nuggets. Although Watson may not be LeBron James, he was one of the best available wing options on the free agent market. Watson had a breakout year with the Nuggets, averaging 14.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.1 blocked shots per game.

While his preseason numbers may seem unimpressive, they could be a result of adjusting to new teammates and recovering from an injury. Watson's role as the Cavs' starting small forward and the team's best defensive wing player could lead to him being in the running for an All-Defensive team. If he can maintain his offensive production while also contributing defensively, Watson has the potential to shock the NBA world with a breakout season.