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7 NBA preseason standouts who look ready to make a leap

Leonard Miller has emerged as one of the NBA preseason’s most compelling breakout candidates after a career resurgence with the Chicago Bulls. The 6’10” forward, acquired from Minnesota at last year’s trade deadline, has shown significant improvement in both scoring and efficiency, averaging standout numbers in limited preseason minutes.

His 26-point, seven-rebound performance against the Nuggets—including 11 of 14 field goals and 4 of 6 from three—demonstrated his ability to dominate around the rim while also contributing from beyond the arc. Though his outside shooting remains a question mark, Miller’s polished post game, athleticism in transition, and rebounding prowess have made him a versatile force for a Bulls squad already stacked with young talent at the power-forward position.

His development comes after years of limited opportunities in Minnesota, where former coach Chris Finch rarely trusted him with significant minutes despite his physical tools. The preseason has given Miller a chance to prove he can be more than a role player, and if his progress holds into the regular season, he could carve out a key role for Chicago’s rebuilding project.

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