The Rookie of the Year race isn’t exactly the hottest talking point in the NBA right now since this might be one of the most disappointing classes in NBA history. Zaccharie Risacher, the No. 1 overall pick has been solid but unspectacular with averages of 8.6 points and 3.1 rebounds per game while Reed Sheppard and Alex Sarr haven’t proven to be world beaters either. That doesn’t mean the Rookie of the Year power rankings are devoid of potential, and we provide the current ranking of the 10 best so far in the season.
1. Zaccharie Risacher
Draft: No. 1 Overall Pick, Atlanta Hawks
2024-25 Stats: 8.6 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 1.0 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.9 BPG
The top pick in the 2024 draft, Zaccharie Risacher entered the season with massive expectations as the future face of the Atlanta Hawks. While his numbers—8.6 points and 3.1 rebounds per game—haven’t dazzled, Risacher has shown flashes of the potential that made him a consensus No. 1.
His length and athleticism allow him to impact the game defensively, and he’s already displayed solid instincts in the passing lanes with 1.0 steals per game. Despite lacking polish in his offensive game, he’s an intriguing prospect to watch as he refines his shot and gets comfortable with NBA spacing.
Critics might say Risacher’s stats feel a bit underwhelming for a top pick, especially on a Hawks team that could use an immediate contributor. But there’s a reason to be patient with Risacher: he’s still just scratching the surface of his talent, particularly on offense.
2. Dalton Knecht
Draft: No. 17 Overall Pick, Los Angeles Lakers
2024-25 Stats: 7.7 PPG, 1.3 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.3 SPG, 0.0 BPG
The Lakers’ No. 17 pick, Dalton Knecht, has surprised a lot of people with his steady play and smart shot selection. Averaging 7.7 points and 1.2 assists per game, he’s been a reliable presence in the Lakers’ rotation. While his raw stats may not leap off the page, Knecht’s poise on the floor and ability to score in clutch moments have made him a fan favorite in Los Angeles.
He doesn’t have the athletic flash of some other rookies, but his basketball IQ and calm demeanor are exactly what the Lakers need off the bench. While he might not be ROY material, he’s undoubtedly one of the draft’s most pleasant surprises and the fans in Los Angeles love him.
3. Zach Edey
Draft: No. 9 Overall Pick, Memphis Grizzlies
2024-25 Stats: 9.1 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 0.4 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Zach Edey, standing at a towering 7’4″, brings a rare physical presence to the Grizzlies. With 9.1 points and 5.7 rebounds per game, he’s already establishing himself as an impact player, especially on the boards. His post moves are polished, and his size makes him an easy target in the paint, allowing Memphis to exploit mismatches.
However, his mobility can be a liability on defense against quicker players, which is something the coaching staff is actively working on with him. Edey’s limitations aside, he’s shown flashes of a dominant inside scorer and rim protector with Ja Morant feeding him inside.
4. Alex Sarr
Draft: No. 2 Overall Pick, Washington Wizards
2024-25 Stats: 9.8 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 1.6 APG, 0.6 SPG, 2.8 BPG
Alex Sarr, the No. 2 overall pick for the Washington Wizards, has had a rocky start offensively but shines as a defensive powerhouse with 2.8 blocks per game. His length and timing have already made him one of the best rim protectors among rookies, and his versatility as a defender could help him secure a long career in the NBA.
Offensively, he’s struggled to find a rhythm, but at 9.8 points and 6.2 rebounds per game, Sarr still shows flashes of becoming a two-way force. Though he has yet to truly “wow” on the offensive end and Wizards fans might feel underwhelmed, Sarr’s potential as a defensive anchor could help elevate him in the ROY race if his scoring picks up.
5. Carlton Carrington
Draft: No. 14 Overall Pick, Portland Trail Blazers (Washington Wizards)
2024-25 Stats: 9.2 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Carlton Carrington’s playmaking skills are what make him stand out in this class. With 9.2 points and 4.4 assists per game, the Wizards’ No. 14 pick is a crafty guard who brings energy and court vision that’s beyond his years. He’s excellent at reading defenses and setting up his teammates, a skill that’s helped him solidify a role in Washington’s rotation.
Carrington’s shooting still needs some work, but his IQ and leadership qualities are impressive for a rookie. He seems to be a glue guy, a reliable contributor who plays with grit and intelligence. If he keeps developing, Carrington could surprise a lot of people and become a consistent, high-impact player for the Wizards.
6. Stephon Castle
Draft: No. 4 Overall Pick, San Antonio Spurs
2024-25 Stats: 5.2 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 2.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Picked fourth by the Spurs, Stephon Castle hasn’t exactly lit up the scoreboard with his 5.2 points per game, but his defense and playmaking show potential. Castle’s size and versatility allow him to guard multiple positions, which has quickly earned him minutes on a team that values defensive intensity.
Like other rookies in these rankings, his offensive game needs work, especially his shooting, but he’s displayed an ability to make smart plays and avoid costly mistakes. Castle’s early performance might not look glamorous, but his willingness to grind on defense and hustle for his team speaks volumes. His stats may not land him ROY, but Spurs fans know a project player when they see one.
7. Yves Missi
Draft: No. 21 Overall Pick, New Orleans Pelicans
2024-25 Stats: 6.0 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 1.7 APG, 0.6 SPG, 1.6 BPG
A sleeper pick at No. 21 by the Pelicans, Yves Missi has made his presence known with 6.0 points and 6.0 rebounds per game. His rebounding and 1.6 blocks per game showcase his instincts and timing on the court. Missi has been a hustle player who doesn’t mind doing the dirty work, which makes him a valuable asset for a Pelicans team in need of interior help following the departure of Jonas Valanciunas.
Missi’s offensive limitations may prevent him from taking over games, but his defensive skills and rebounding make him a staple in New Orleans’ rotation. He’s unlikely to lead the rookie race, but for those who appreciate gritty, unselfish basketball, Missi is as reliable as they come.
8. Ryan Dunn
Draft: No. 28 Overall Pick, Denver Nuggets (Joined Phoenix Suns)
2024-25 Stats: 7.8 PPG, 2.2 RPG, 0.8 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Drafted by Denver at No. 28 but playing for the Phoenix Suns, Ryan Dunn has been a pleasant surprise with 7.8 points and solid efficiency. Dunn is an adaptable wing who’s been able to knock down open shots, providing a much-needed scoring boost for Phoenix’s bench. He’s not going to wow you with elite athleticism or dazzling handles, but his IQ and shot selection have been impressive for a late first-round pick.
Dunn has a mature approach to the game, playing his role without trying to do too much. Phoenix fans should appreciate his efficient play, and if he can continue to deliver consistent scoring, Dunn could become a mainstay in the Suns’ rotation. He may not be a star, but he’s a solid, dependable option off the bench.
9. Jamal Shead
Draft: No. 45 Overall, Sacramento Kings (Joined Toronto Raptors)
2024-25 Stats: 6.4 PPG, 1.0 RPG, 5.0 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.1 BPG
A second-round gem, Jamal Shead has been a fantastic playmaker for the Raptors, averaging 5.0 assists per game. His vision and unselfish play have made him a reliable ball-handler who can control the tempo of a game. Though he scores just 6.4 points per game, his focus on facilitating makes him a unique rookie contributor who has elevated Toronto’s second unit.
Shead’s scoring might need to improve for him to become an elite point guard, but his playmaking skills make him a valuable piece. In a class that’s struggling to find its footing, Shead’s approach to the game and his ability to make teammates better give him a real shot to climb in the rankings.
10. Jaylen Wells
Draft: No. 39 Overall, Memphis Grizzlies
2024-25 Stats: 10.3 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 1.7 APG, 0.3 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Jaylen Wells, drafted at No. 39 by Memphis, has made a name for himself as a confident scorer, leading rookies in points per game at 10.3. Wells has been efficient in his role, capitalizing on scoring opportunities and making a strong case as an offensive spark.
Wells is proving that sometimes, all you need is a shot to show what you can do. While he may not have the all-around game yet, his offensive instincts make him one to watch. If he can round out his skill set, Wells might just turn out to be one of the sleeper stars of this rookie class.
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