The NBA's Next Big Thing: Can Anyone Dethrone the Rookie King?
The 2025 NBA Draft's top picks, Dylan Harper and Cooper Flagg, are set to make their highly anticipated NBA debuts. But the spotlight is firmly on one man: Dallas' Cooper Flagg, the consensus favorite for the league's top rookie honor.
Flagg, a towering 6'9" forward from Maine, was the No. 1 pick, and his talent and opportunities with the Mavericks make him the odds-on favorite for the Kia Rookie of the Year award. History is on his side, as 23 No. 1 picks have claimed this honor, but there's a twist: with only a 28% success rate, the odds are still stacked against him.
While Flagg is the clear frontrunner, let's not forget the other lottery picks who could challenge his throne. And this is where it gets interesting...
No. 2 pick: Dylan Harper, San Antonio Spurs
Despite the shadow of last season's Rookie of the Year, Stephon Castle, Harper has impressed teammates like Victor Wembanyama, who believes in his immediate impact. But can he shine behind De'Aaron Fox?
No. 3 pick: VJ Edgecombe, Philadelphia 76ers
Edgecombe led the rookies in preseason scoring and forms a dynamic guard trio with Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain. His two-way game is developing, and his defensive prowess has caught the eye of coach Nick Nurse.
No. 4 pick: Kon Knueppel, Charlotte Hornets
The Hornets see Knueppel as a key piece alongside LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. His versatility and offensive output in preseason make him a player to watch.
No. 5 pick: Ace Bailey, Utah Jazz
Bailey's health concerns aside, he's been a standout in Coach Will Hardy's offense. His cutting ability and jumper behind screens could make him a dark horse in the rookie race.
No. 6 pick: Tre Johnson, Washington Wizards
Teammate CJ McCollum praised Johnson's shooting, but his preseason numbers dipped. His work ethic and potential could be a boost to the Wizards' young core.
No. 7 pick: Jeremiah Fears, New Orleans Pelicans
The Pelicans want Fears to be fearless. Coach Willie Green wants him in attack mode, and he's already climbing the depth chart.
No. 8 pick: Egor Dëmin, Brooklyn Nets
The Nets' 6'8" playmaker is working on his strength and outside shot. With added muscle, his talent could truly shine.
No. 9 pick: Collin Murray-Boyles, Toronto Raptors
Injuries have delayed Murray-Boyles' debut, but his size and mobility are expected to bolster the Raptors' defense.
No. 10 pick: Khaman Maluach, Phoenix Suns
Maluach's impressive preseason shooting has the Suns rethinking their center depth. His size and potential make him a wildcard in the rookie conversation.
No. 11 pick: Cedric Coward, Memphis Grizzlies
Coward's unique path to the NBA, from Division III to Washington State, makes him an intriguing prospect. His wingspan and defensive skills could make him a valuable wing defender.
No. 12 pick: Noa Essengue, Chicago Bulls
Essengue's height is a strength, but he needs to bulk up. With a frontcourt logjam, his development might come in the G League.
No. 13 pick: Derik Queen, New Orleans Pelicans
Queen's injury setback hasn't deterred the Pelicans, who value his scoring and versatility. He could be a key Plan B for the team.
No. 14 pick: Carter Bryant, San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs' defensive prowess continues with Bryant, who is projected to be a strong defensive force. His offensive game may need work, but his role in the team's stingy defense could be crucial.
As the season unfolds, will Flagg dominate as predicted, or will one of these talented rookies rise to challenge him? The Rookie Ladder will be a fascinating watch, and the debate is sure to spark passionate opinions. Who do you think will be the NBA's top rookie? Is Flagg's crown already assured, or is there a surprise contender waiting in the wings?
