For most NBA players, the third season is when we get a good idea of who they are as players. Unless they’re a top 5 pick, there isn’t much pressure on rookies to come in and be major contributors right away. Naturally, we’ll still look for some bright spots in their games and discuss what role they could fill for a franchise for the next 4-7 years.
But the next year? That second year is a beast on its own. The league has a full season of footage. Opponents knowing their tendencies, hot spots, strengths and weaknesses. Fans place borderline unrealistic expectations on the player and, in some cases, organizations do the same.