2024-25 NBA Rookie Standouts: Rookie of the Year Race

Drafted: No. 1, France
Key stats: 12.4 points per game, 1.2 turnovers per game, 54.7% True Shooting

Risacher entered the NBA with less hype than typical top picks due to the draft`s perceived weakness. However, his transition has been smooth. He quickly became a starter, contributing to Atlanta`s play-in tournament appearance. Despite some challenges, highlights include a 36-point game against Milwaukee.

Since the All-Star break, he`s shooting well (47.9% FG, 39.2% 3PT) and playing solid defense. While he needs to develop his shot creation, he effectively plays off teammates like Trae Young and Dyson Daniels, minimizing errors.

Despite pre-draft debates and perhaps understated fanfare, Risacher is living up to his top pick status, giving the Hawks confidence in their draft decision.

Drafted: No. 4, UConn
Key stats: 14.5 PPG, 3.9 assists per game, 51.7% TS

Castle has adapted to various roles this season, especially with coaching and player absences on the Spurs. He`s shown his versatility, taking on a larger offensive role when needed. Averaging 17.6 points since the All-Star break, he leads rookies in scoring and is a strong Rookie of the Year contender.

While considered for the top spot, Risacher edged him out due to Castle`s lower efficiency and higher turnovers (2.1 per game). However, Castle has the potential to be the best player from this class, particularly with improved efficiency.

He appears to be a great pick and a promising partner for Victor Wembanyama.

Drafted: No. 9, Purdue
Key stats: 9.2 PPG, 8.0 rebounds per game, 61.9% TS

Edey`s rookie season aligns with expectations: efficient and productive per minute, but limited to around 20 minutes per game due to defensive challenges, resulting in a platoon role. He grabbed a season-high 21 rebounds against Detroit and has returned to the starting lineup as Memphis adjusts its strategy. His interior scoring and rebounding, combined with his size and strength, make his development intriguing. His net rating is top among rookies playing over 20 minutes.

Drafted: No. 7, UConn
Key stats: 6.3 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 1.6 blocks per game

Clingan leads rookies in blocks and has shown significant promise, becoming a Trail Blazers starter in February and adapting to increased minutes. While successful in a platoon role at UConn, consistently playing more in the NBA is his next step. He`s already a strong defensive center, effective in various coverages, especially amidst injuries to other centers. Improving his physique and conditioning could reduce fouls and enhance his paint scoring.

Clingan looks like a potential defensive anchor for Portland, especially if he can maintain longer playing time.

Drafted: No. 11, G League Ignite
Key stats: 8.2 PPG, 0.9 BPG, 55.3% TS

Buzelis has excelled since becoming a starter in February, contributing to the Bulls` play-in qualification. His size, athleticism, improved ball-handling, and shot-blocking ability provide a solid foundation. Increased consistency and confidence have made him more impactful than anticipated. Future development will focus on expanding his offense and creating his own shots. Once considered a potential top pick, Buzelis is proving to be a valuable addition for Chicago.

Drafted: No. 2, France
Key stats: 13.1 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 1.5 BPG

Sarr`s professional career is off to a strong start. Despite playing on a struggling Wizards team, he`s gaining significant developmental minutes as his offense catches up to his physical gifts. Few 7-footers possess his combination of speed, rim protection, and perimeter fluidity. While some stats are still developing, his potential is evident. He is approaching joining Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren as the only rookies to reach 100 threes and 100 blocks, highlighting his versatility. Washington is counting on him as a key player for the future.

Drafted: No. 39, Washington State
Key stats: 10.4 PPG, 56% TS

Wells has exceeded expectations, becoming a starter early in the season and proving to be a draft steal. While his shooting was a known strength, his defensive contributions have been a surprise. He has consistently taken on tough defensive assignments. Wells was crucial for the Grizzlies during their strong season start, and his net rating is second among rookies playing 20+ minutes. Unfortunately, his season appears over due to a wrist injury.

Drafted: No. 15, Indiana
Key stats: 9.2 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 60.7% TS

Ware was an intriguing pick due to his high potential despite concerns about consistency. He has started numerous games and shown improved effort since January, leading Miami in blocks and recording numerous double-doubles, tying for the rookie lead. He also has a positive net rating while playing significant minutes. If Miami maximizes his potential, he could be a long-term partner with Bam Adebayo.

Drafted: No. 21, Baylor
Key stats: 9.1 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 1.3 BPG

Missi`s rapid development has been a positive for the Pelicans during an injury-plagued season. Stepping in earlier than expected, he addressed New Orleans` center needs, providing valuable minutes and stability. He leads rookies in rebounding, is tied for the most double-doubles, and has started the most games for the Pelicans. While his long-term skill development is uncertain, his rim-running and defense have made him a valuable find for New Orleans.

Drafted: No. 32, Duke
Key stats: 9.1 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 59.2% TS

Filipowski`s offensive skills have translated well to the NBA, even on a struggling Jazz team. Since the All-Star break, he`s averaging strong scoring numbers and has shown better defense than anticipated. Falling to the second round has benefited the Jazz, as Filipowski has been productive offensively and gained immediate playing time. He appears to be a valuable draft pick.

Drafted: No. 18, Colorado
Key stats: 7.0 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 52.3% TS

While his role has recently decreased, da Silva started numerous games for the Magic and played significant minutes, filling in effectively during injuries to key players. While not flashy, his versatility in lineups and defense makes him valuable depth. While his upside may be limited due to age, the Magic found immediate use for him in the mid-first round.

Drafted: No. 14, Pittsburgh
Key stats: 9.6 PPG, 4.3 APG, 51.2% TS

Carrington, at 19, leads rookies in minutes per game, reflecting Washington`s youth focus. While wins are scarce, Carrington has shown talent, including a 32-point game. He manages turnovers well and displays maturity for his age. He seems to be developing well and is positioned as a key part of Washington`s future.

Drafted: No. 5, G League Ignite
Key stats: 6.5 PPG, 62% 2FG

Holland`s stats are modest, but he`s played a useful role for a surprisingly improved Pistons team, providing energy and defense off the bench. He has improved recently, showing better efficiency since the All-Star break. His 3-point shooting is still developing, but Detroit`s lower-pressure offensive environment should aid his growth.

Drafted: No. 29, USC
Key stats: 8.7 PPG, 6.3 APG, 50.2% TS

The Jazz entrusted Collier with point guard duties in January, and despite Utah`s struggles, he`s gained valuable experience. He broke a team rookie assist record. While turnover-prone and struggling with his jump shot, his playmaking has been a bright spot. Once highly regarded in the draft, the Jazz took a chance on Collier, hoping he improves his shooting and decision-making.

Drafted: No. 16, Duke
Key stats: 15.3 PPG, 38% 3FG (23 games)

McCain impressed for the Sixers before a season-ending injury. While in a losing context, his streak of 20-point games in November was notable. Despite lacking elite physical tools, his shooting and basketball IQ give him a foundation to build on. His limited games this season impact his ranking, but he deserves recognition.

Drafted: No. 52, Boston College
Key stats: 8.5 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 59.6% TS

Post leads rookies in net rating while playing significant minutes since the All-Star break, benefiting from playing on a strong Warriors team. He has performed well and earned a standard contract. Perhaps underrated in the draft, his 3-point shooting has been valuable for the Warriors` bench since joining from the G League.

Drafted: No. 17, Tennessee
Key stats: 9.9 PPG, 37.2% 3FG

Knecht`s draft position was discussed, and while his minutes have decreased on the improved Lakers, his 3-point shooting is still top among rookie wings. Defensive struggles limit him, but he can be a useful specialist. The Lakers might utilize him in the playoffs for offensive boost.

Drafted: No. 41, UCLA
Key stats: 5.3 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 71% TS

Despite the Sixers` struggles, Bona`s production has been notable. The second-round pick appears ready for a consistent role next season. Since the break, he`s averaged strong numbers and leads rookies in blocks per game. Known for his energy, Bona has lived up to his reputation in a challenging season for the 76ers.

Drafted: No. 28, Virginia
Key stats: 6.5 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 51.1% TS

Dunn became a consistent bench player for the Suns and has had a successful season relative to expectations. He is a versatile defender with a clear path to a long-term role. Offensively, he is still developing, but his improved 3-point shooting is a step forward. Continued progress in this area is crucial for his long-term success.

Drafted: No. 38, UC Santa Barbara
Key stats: 6.4 PPG, 59.5% TS (35 games)

Mitchell is nearing a return from injury. He had become a reliable bench player for the Thunder, playing a valuable role on a top team. His two-way contract was converted to a standard deal despite his injury. Mitchell`s composure and versatility earned him his role, making him a valuable pick. His contributions, though brief, secure him the final spot on this list.