Man, I've been diving deep into the potential candidates for the NBA's Rookie of the Year in 2024, and let me tell you, there's an electric mix of talent emerging from this year's draft class. If you look at the numbers, some players are already making a significant impact in preseason games, and their regular-season performance should be stellar.
Take Victor Wembanyama for instance. The 7'4" French sensation by the San Antonio Spurs has been nothing short of extraordinary. People are already talking about him as a major contender. In his last game, he posted a double-double with 22 points and 11 rebounds. And don't even get me started on his blocks – he's averaging 3.5 blocks per game in the preseason. His sheer defensive prowess is what sets him apart, making him a standout candidate for the award.
Scoot Henderson, who was the No. 2 overall pick by the Portland Trail Blazers, is another strong contender. Analysts love his explosiveness and playmaking ability. In his professional debut in the G League, Henderson averaged 20.7 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. His transition to the NBA might be smoother than most rookies because he already has that professional experience under his belt. Can he handle the pressure of the big league? Fans and experts are betting on his resilience and skill.
Surely, you can't talk about rookie sensations without mentioning Alabama's Brandon Miller. Drafted by the Charlotte Hornets, Miller brings a unique scoring ability to the team. In college, he averaged 18.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, shooting 43% from the field. His ability to score from anywhere on the court makes him a lethal weapon. Will his college success translate to the NBA? Judging by his summer league performance, the answer appears to be a resounding yes.
And let's not forget Chet Holmgren of the Oklahoma City Thunder. Although technically a sophomore, he qualifies as a rookie due to missing the entire 2022-23 season with a foot injury. This 7-footer has a unique skill set that combines shot-blocking with three-point shooting. His college stats speak volumes, where he averaged 14.1 points, 9.9 rebounds, and an impressive 3.7 blocks per game. If he stays healthy, Holmgren could easily be in the conversation for this coveted award.
One wild card has to be Amen Thompson of the Houston Rockets. His athleticism and defensive capabilities make him a breakout candidate. Thompson has shown flashes of brilliance in games with 15-point outings paired with standout defensive stats including steals and blocks. The Rockets have a young core, and his development alongside other talented rookies could push his game to new heights.
Not everyone can make it to the top, though. History has taught us that stats alone sometimes don't win the award. Impact on the team's performance, media narratives, and unexpected challenges play crucial roles. For instance, Michael Carter-Williams won the Rookie of the Year in 2014 due to his all-around impact, despite lower scoring averages than some peers. So while it's easy to get caught up in numbers, remember that context matters.
So who’s my personal pick? While my heart says Wembanyama, my mind can’t help but consider Henderson’s readiness for the NBA grind. His early G League stats, combined with his leadership qualities at such a young age, give him a unique edge. But hey, it’s the NBA. Expect the unexpected, and enjoy the ride as these rookies carve their tales in the game we love.
If you want to revisit last season's standout, check out this rookie of the year nba 2023 link.