Joel Embiid Is Set to Dominate the 2025-26 Season — But These 5 ‘Wild Cards’ Could Shatter All Predictions!

Every NBA season has its surprises. From unexpected breakout stars to veteran players struggling in unforeseen ways, unpredictability is the one constant in the league. Nothing ever goes exactly as fans and analysts predict, and the 2025-26 NBA season promises no exception. As teams finalize their rosters and fans speculate, several wild card players could shape the trajectory of their squads—and the league itself.

Here’s a deep dive into the most intriguing wild cards for the upcoming NBA season.

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope – Memphis Grizzlies’ Unexpected Hero?

The Memphis Grizzlies stunned the NBA world by trading Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic. The haul—four first-round picks—was impossible to pass up, but now Memphis faces a precarious situation. With Jaren Jackson Jr. sidelined for months, the Grizzlies’ standing in the tough Western Conference is under serious pressure.

All eyes will be on Ja Morant to stay healthy and regain his MVP-level form after a shaky 2024-25 season. Meanwhile, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (KCP) is expected to take on a starring role. At 32, KCP is entering a high-stakes season with the Grizzlies, stepping away from a forgettable stint in Orlando where he hit only 34.9% of his three-pointers.

The critical question: Can KCP reclaim his defensive prowess and career 3-point averages? If he does, the Grizzlies’ gamble on the Bane trade could look like a stroke of genius. If not, Memphis may find itself struggling to compete in one of the NBA’s toughest divisions.

Bennedict Mathurin – Indiana Pacers’ Young Scorer Under Pressure

The Indiana Pacers face a significant challenge this season with Tyrese Haliburton sidelined. Haliburton, the heartbeat of the team, has been pivotal in driving Indiana’s dynamic offense. Without him, the Pacers enter what could be considered a “gap year”, but coach Rick Carlisle is not backing down.

Enter Bennedict Mathurin, the sixth overall pick of 2022 and the projected starting two-guard. At 23, Mathurin showed flashes of brilliance, scoring 24 points in Game 7 of the NBA Finals after Haliburton exited. But there’s a catch: Mathurin thrives as a scorer, not a playmaker. His ability to adapt to a more team-oriented role will determine whether Indiana can maintain its offensive flow.

If Mathurin balances scoring with facilitating for teammates, the Pacers could remain competitive in the East. If not, his season may highlight the risks of relying on a young gunner to fill Haliburton’s shoes.

Deandre Ayton – The Lakers’ High-Risk Acquisition

After a buyout in Portland, Deandre Ayton signed with the Los Angeles Lakers, pairing with LeBron James and Luka Dončić. On paper, this is a golden opportunity for Ayton to revive his career. Yet Ayton’s history is a rollercoaster. One day he dominates defensively and finishes inside with elite athleticism; the next, he drifts on defense and settles for inefficient mid-range jumpers.

For the Lakers, consistency is everything. Ayton must maximize his tools and stay mentally engaged every game. If he can, the Lakers gain a potent weapon to complement their superstar backcourt. If he falters, the team could once again struggle with porous defense and limited inside scoring. Ayton’s season is a make-or-break scenario, and fans will be watching every move closely.

Zion Williamson – Pelicans’ Fragile Superstar

The New Orleans Pelicans are all-in on Zion Williamson, moving up in the 2026 draft to select Derik Queen—a move widely regarded as an overpay. The Pelicans’ lineup is thin at center, and Zion’s health has always been a concern. Yet his offensive dominance is undeniable. When on the floor, Williamson is nearly unstoppable in the paint, a rare combination of size, speed, and finishing ability.

The question remains: Can Williamson stay healthy enough to carry New Orleans through a stacked Western Conference? If he misses significant time, the Pelicans’ ambitious plans could unravel, making this season a high-stakes gamble for the franchise.

Jalen Green – Phoenix Suns’ Inconsistent Dynamo

The Suns made waves this offseason by trading Kevin Durant, acquiring Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and Khaman Maluach. While Green has immense talent, he remains highly inconsistent. On his best nights, he can score at will, showcasing elite handles and finishing ability. On bad nights, turnovers and poor defense dominate his stat line.

The Suns’ success hinges on Green building chemistry with Devin Booker and embracing a more team-focused approach. If he does, he could be a breakout star. If not, Phoenix may struggle to replace the leadership and scoring lost with Durant’s departure.

Joel Embiid – The Sixers’ Uncertain MVP Contender

Arguably the most compelling wild card, Joel Embiid has yet to return following knee surgery. Last season, he played only 19 games, a shadow of his MVP-caliber form. The Philadelphia 76ers are counting on Embiid to lead a team that combines veteran stars and promising young talent like Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain.

If healthy, Embiid could be the difference between a mediocre season and a deep Eastern Conference run. If not, Philadelphia’s playoff hopes could crumble, and the Sixers’ massive financial investment in veterans may yield limited returns. Embiid’s availability and performance will likely define the entire Eastern Conference landscape.

Why These Wild Cards Matter

The 2025-26 NBA season is shaping up to be unpredictable. With injuries, trades, and young stars stepping into new roles, these wild cards represent both opportunity and risk for their teams. Fans and analysts alike will be tracking:

• KCP’s defensive revival and shooting consistency in Memphis

• Mathurin’s adaptation to a playmaker role in Indiana

• Ayton’s mental and physical commitment in Los Angeles

• Zion’s ability to stay healthy in New Orleans

• Jalen Green’s consistency and synergy with Booker in Phoenix

• Embiid’s health and MVP-level dominance in Philadelphia

Each player could drastically shift the league’s balance, creating headline-making moments, buzzer-beaters, and playoff surprises.

Conclusion: Expect the Unexpected

The beauty of the NBA lies in its unpredictability. Every season brings surprises that defy expectations. The 2025-26 season is no different, with several high-upside, high-risk players ready to redefine their franchises’ fortunes. Will a young star explode, a veteran rediscover his prime, or a health gamble pay off? Fans are about to find out.

As we edge closer to opening night, one thing is certain: these wild cards will dominate the headlines, create viral highlights, and shape the narrative of the 2025-26 NBA season. From Memphis to Philadelphia, the stakes are high, and the league is watching.

Stay tuned. The 2025-26 NBA season promises chaos, drama, and unforgettable moments.