The NBA is officially returning to the 2019-2020 season amidst the coronavirus pandemic with 22 teams. SI's Michael Shapiro and Corey Parson share a few of the players fans should have their eyes on as the season returns. 

Video Transcript:

Robin Lundberg: The NBA is coming back. And with that official, which players are you most excited to watch? I mean, obviously there's LeBron James and Giannis. But beyond that? For more, I'm joined by our Michael Shapiro and the fantasy exec Corey Parson. Now, Michael, in your article you outlined some specific guys, including two that play in Texas and one, a Russell Westbrook who may be fresh.

Michael Shapiro: Yeah, you know, I think Westbrook truly is one of the most fascinating players we have ahead in the 2020 postseason. It's really been a tale of two seasons for Westbrook and 2019-20. He really had a tough time adjusting at first in Houston, really being a true sidekick to James Harden. But once the calendar turned to 2020, he's been in his MVP form, averaging 32 points per game. Fifty-two percent shooting. And he continues to play the efficient way that he has before the coronavirus suspension, the Rockets have a much better shot at reaching the finals.

Robin Lundberg: And the other guy you want to see is Kristaps Porzingis, who started to find his rhythm when the season was halted?

Michael Shapiro: Yeah, you know, I think we haven't really seen the best of Porzingis this season, especially when he is paired with Luka Doncic. They've kind of had an awkward "My turn. Your turn." Offensive setup. But I think if you guys can start to gel, start to punish teams in the pick and roll, the rest of the Western Conference should really be on upset alert against Doncic, Porzingis, and the Mavericks.

Robin Lundberg: Now, Corey, I know you watch from a gambling and fantasy perspective, but also as a fan as well, and Porzingis' star teammate is somebody you're looking out for.

Corey Parson: Yeah, I think Luka Doncic is a player that's going to be exciting to see and to season resumes. You look at what he was doing this year. He was putting up phenomenal numbers and he's got the whole entertainment swag and game down. You see him rocking the baby, you see him drilling the step-back threes. So I think Doncic has a real chance. But they're not going to get out the first round there, they cannot beat the Clippers. But another team, I think is going to be interesting to watch. Is going to be the Memphis Grizzlies and their young star point guard in Ja Morant. Ja Morant is definitely getting a lot of attention right now. You see what he's doing. And look at how he gets up in the air and tries to dunk on everybody. He's a real exciting young player. He's got the vision. So I'm really looking forward to seeing Ja Morant, when we get inside that bubble.