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

1. Zaccharie Risacher, PF, Hawks

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 No. 1 picks, joining what was considered a weaker draft class. However, he has adapted to the league effectively. He became a starter early in the season, helped Atlanta compete in the play-in tournament, and showed flashes of brilliance, including a 36-point game against the Milwaukee Bucks in March.

Since the All-Star break, he`s shot well from the field (47.9%) and three-point range (39.2%), contributing reliably on both offense and defense. While he needs to improve creating his own shots, he has thrived playing alongside Trae Young and Dyson Daniels and avoids many errors. Despite initial draft debates and perhaps understated fanfare, Risacher is performing like a top pick, validating the Hawks` draft decision.

2. Stephon Castle, G, Spurs

Drafted: No. 4, UConn

Key stats: 14.5 PPG, 3.9 assists per game, 51.7% TS

Castle has taken on various roles this season, especially with coach Gregg Popovich`s absence and Victor Wembanyama`s injury. He`s proven his versatility, stepping up offensively when De`Aaron Fox was injured. Averaging 17.6 points since the All-Star break, Castle leads rookies in scoring and has a strong case for Rookie of the Year based on production.

I considered ranking him No. 1, but Risacher edged him out slightly due to Castle`s efficiency and turnover issues (2.1 per game). However, Castle has the potential to become the best player from this draft, particularly if he refines these areas. He appears to be a great pick and a promising partner for Wembanyama in the future.

3. Zach Edey, C, Grizzlies

Drafted: No. 9, Purdue

Key stats: 9.2 PPG, 8.0 rebounds per game, 61.9% TS

Edey`s rookie season is unfolding as expected. He`s efficient and productive per minute but plays around 20 minutes per game due to defensive limitations, placing him in a more specialized role. He grabbed a season-high 21 rebounds against the Detroit Pistons in April and has returned to the starting lineup since Memphis changed coaches. Edey`s interior scoring, rebounding, and unique size and strength combination make his development intriguing. His net rating is high among rookies playing significant minutes.

4. Donovan Clingan, C, Trail Blazers

Drafted: No. 7, UConn

Key stats: 6.3 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 1.6 blocks per game

Clingan leads all rookies in blocks per game and has shown considerable promise. He became a starter for the Trail Blazers in February, adjusting to increased minutes for the first time in his career. While successful in a platoon role at UConn, the challenge now is consistently playing more minutes in the NBA. Already a strong defensive center, he has been consistent defensively, stepping up amidst injuries to Deandre Ayton and Robert Williams III. Improving his physique and conditioning could reduce foul trouble and enhance his scoring near the basket. Clingan looks like a potential defensive anchor for Portland if he can sustain longer playing time.

5. Matas Buzelis, F, Bulls

Drafted: No. 11, G League Ignite

Key stats: 8.2 PPG, 0.9 BPG, 55.3% TS

Buzelis has performed best since becoming a full-time starter in February, contributing to a Bulls team that reached the play-in tournament. His size, athleticism, improved ball-handling, and shot-blocking ability provide a solid foundation for growth. Increased consistency and confidence have made him more impactful than some expected. The next steps involve expanding his offensive repertoire and creating his own shot more effectively. Once considered a potential No. 1 pick, Buzelis appears to be a valuable addition for Chicago, though still developing.

6. Alex Sarr, PF/C, Wizards

Drafted: No. 2, France

Key stats: 13.1 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 1.5 BPG

Sarr`s professional career is off to a good start. Despite the Wizards` struggles, he`s gaining valuable experience as his offensive skills develop to match his physical gifts. Few 7-footers possess his combination of speed, rim protection, and perimeter fluidity. While his stats show areas for improvement (field goal percentage and rebounds are average), his potential is evident. He`s close to joining Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren as the only rookies to achieve 100 three-pointers and 100 blocks, highlighting his versatile game. Washington is counting on him to become a key player.

7. Jaylen Wells, SG/SF, Grizzlies

Drafted: No. 39, Washington State

Key stats: 10.4 PPG, 56% TS

Wells has been a surprisingly quick contributor, becoming a starter early in the season and proving to be one of the best value picks in the draft. While his shooting ability was known, Wells has impressed defensively, often taking on challenging assignments. He has been crucial for the Grizzlies, who were strong in the West for much of the season. His net rating is high among rookies playing significant minutes. Unfortunately, his season appears to be over due to a wrist injury suffered in a recent game.

8. Kel`el Ware, C, Heat

Drafted: No. 15, Indiana

Key stats: 9.2 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 60.7% TS

Ware was an intriguing pick in the 2024 draft, with Miami investing in his talent despite concerns about consistency. He has started many games and shown improved effort since January, leading Miami in blocks and achieving numerous double-doubles, tying for the most among rookies. He also has a positive net rating while playing significant minutes. If Miami can maximize his potential, he could be a long-term partner with Bam Adebayo.

9. Yves Missi, C, Pelicans

Drafted: No. 21, Baylor

Key stats: 9.1 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 1.3 BPG

Missi`s rapid development has been a positive highlight for the Pelicans this season. New Orleans needed center depth, and Missi stepped up quickly, providing valuable minutes and stability. He leads all rookies in rebounding, is tied for the most double-doubles, and has started the most games for the Pelicans, showing consistency and learning quickly. While his long-term skill growth is uncertain, his rim-running and interior defense have made him a valuable find for New Orleans.

10. Kyle Filipowski, PF, Jazz

Drafted: No. 32, Duke

Key stats: 9.1 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 59.2% TS

Filipowski`s offensive abilities have translated well to the NBA, even amidst Utah`s struggles. He`s averaged good points since the All-Star break and shown better defense than anticipated. Falling to the second round benefited the Jazz, as Filipowski has been effective offensively and gained immediate playing time. He looks like one of the better value picks in the draft so far.

11. Tristan da Silva, SF, Magic

Drafted: No. 18, Colorado

Key stats: 7.0 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 52.3% TS

Despite reduced playing time recently, Da Silva started many games for the Magic and played significant minutes, filling in effectively when Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero were injured. While not flashy, his ability to fit different lineups offensively and defend multiple positions makes him a valuable depth player. While his upside might be limited due to his age, the Magic found immediate value in him as a mid-first-round pick.

12. Bub Carrington, PG/SG, Wizards

Drafted: No. 14, Pittsburgh

Key stats: 9.6 PPG, 4.3 APG, 51.2% TS

Carrington, at 19, leads all rookies in minutes per game as Washington focuses on youth development. While the Wizards haven`t won much, Carrington has shown his potential, including a 32-point game against the Magic. He manages turnovers well and has good size and instincts for his age. He seems to be developing well and positioned to be a key part of Washington`s future.

13. Ron Holland II, SF, Pistons

Drafted: No. 5, G League Ignite

Key stats: 6.5 PPG, 62% 2FG

Holland`s stats aren`t eye-catching, but he`s played a useful role for the Pistons, providing energy and solid perimeter defense off the bench. He`s improved recently, with a good net rating and shooting percentage since the All-Star break. His three-point shooting is still a work in progress, but playing in Detroit with less offensive pressure should aid his development.

14. Isaiah Collier, PG, Jazz

Drafted: No. 29, USC

Key stats: 8.7 PPG, 6.3 APG, 50.2% TS

The Jazz gave Collier the point guard role in January, and despite Utah`s position at the bottom of the West, he`s gained valuable experience. He broke a team rookie assist record and leads rookies in assists (and turnovers) per game. Collier struggles with his jump shot and makes mistakes, but his aggressiveness and playmaking have been positives. Once highly-rated, the Jazz took a chance on Collier, hoping he develops into a better shooter and decision-maker.

15. Jared McCain, SG, 76ers

Drafted: No. 16, Duke

Key stats: 15.3 PPG, 38% 3FG (23 games)

McCain had a strong stretch for the 76ers before a season-ending injury. While it came during losses, his streak of 20-point games in November was notable. Despite not being physically dominant, his shooting ability and basketball IQ should help him improve in his second season. Limited to only 23 games this season, ranking him higher was difficult, but he deserves recognition.

16. Quinten Post, C, Warriors

Drafted: No. 52, Boston College

Key stats: 8.5 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 59.6% TS

Post leads rookies in net rating since the All-Star break while playing limited minutes for the Warriors. He has played well and earned a standard contract. Possibly undervalued as a draft prospect, his floor spacing ability has been valuable for the Warriors off the bench.

17. Dalton Knecht, SF, Lakers

Drafted: No. 17, Tennessee

Key stats: 9.9 PPG, 37.2% 3FG

Knecht`s draft position was discussed, and while his minutes have decreased for the improved Lakers, his three-point percentage is still high among rookie wings. His defense is a weakness, but he can be a useful specialist and had good moments. The Lakers might use him in the playoffs for offensive boosts.

18. Adem Bona, C, 76ers

Drafted: No. 41, UCLA

Key stats: 5.3 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 71% TS

Despite the 76ers` struggles, Bona`s production has been notable. The second-round pick looks ready for a bigger role next season. He has good averages since the All-Star break and leads rookies in blocks during this period. Known for his energy, Bona has performed as expected despite a tough season for the 76ers.

19. Ryan Dunn, SF, Suns

Drafted: No. 28, Virginia

Key stats: 6.5 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 51.1% TS

Dunn became a regular bench player for the Suns and has had a good individual season relative to expectations. He`s a versatile defender, securing a long-term role. His offense is still developing, but improved three-point shooting is a positive step and crucial for his future success.

20. Ajay Mitchell, SG, Thunder

Drafted: No. 38, UC Santa Barbara

Key stats: 6.4 PPG, 59.5% TS (35 games)

Mitchell is recovering from injury. He had become a useful bench player for the Thunder, playing well enough to earn a standard contract despite the injury. His composure and ability to play both guard positions helped him earn his spot and become a valuable pick. His contributions, though in a shorter period, earn him the final spot on this list.