Winning the NBA Rookie of the Year award is quite a feat. Typically, it springs from a player’s ability to contribute to their team’s success right away, but development is rarely a straight path. In fact, some athletes have a distinct edge when entering their first full NBA season. Historically, the last nine award winners were all top-four draft picks, aside from Malcolm Brogdon, who stood out as the primary ball handler for a Bucks team that thrived around Giannis Antetokounmpo.
As the season unfolds, narratives around favorites shift. Con Knuppel seemed set to run away with the award last year, showcasing impressive 3-point shooting and mobility with Charlotte. However, Cooper Flagg’s remarkable growth in Dallas — particularly his impressive back-to-back games where he scored 51 and 45 points in April — changed the conversation.
In the context of the award, several top draft picks have skill sets that align perfectly with their future roles. These players are likely to shine in the playoffs, marking significant breakthroughs for their teams.
Cameron Boozer, Memphis Grizzlies (+250)
Cameron Boozer enters the draft as a highly regarded prospect, joining a Memphis team that looks poised for growth. With Zach Edy bringing added size, and players like Jalen Wells and Cedric Coward having previously garnered votes for ROY, Boozer could really help put Memphis back on a competitive trajectory.
Darrin Peterson, Utah Jazz (+270)
Despite a tumultuous season at Kansas State, Darrin Peterson’s move to the Utah Jazz as the second pick may prove advantageous in the long term. Observers have noted his shooting prowess, shaped by physical challenges last season. As the Jazz transition through their rebuilding phase, Peterson fits into their plans alongside talents like Keyontae George, Ace Bailey, Lauri Markkanen, and Jaren Jackson Jr.
AJ Divanza, Washington Wizards (+470)
With a restructured roster, the Wizards are giving AJ Divanza the chance to flourish alongside big names like Trae Young and Anthony Davis. The team’s collection of promising young guards should provide plenty of room for Divanza to score, and there’s a decent shot he could establish himself as the leading rookie scorer.
Darius Acuff Jr., Sacramento Kings (+500)
Acuff Jr. arrives at a Kings team craving a standout guard. He’s not just stepping in as a successor to Russell Westbrook — he showcased finesse and skill under coach John Calipari at Arkansas. With All-Stars like Zach LaVine and Domantas Sabonis around him, he’ll have plenty of opportunities to develop his game.
Caleb Wilson, Chicago Bulls (+1000)
Wilson boasts incredible athleticism and a strong basketball IQ. Joining the Bulls means he’ll benefit from playing alongside players like Josh Guidi and Matas Bouselis. His talents are already drawing comparisons to Michael Jordan, and if he can shine in the center position, he might just keep the excitement alive in Chicago.
Mikel Brown Jr., Brooklyn Nets (+2000)
While the Nets have a packed backcourt after choosing four guards in 2025, Mikel Brown Jr. has demonstrated an ability to create opportunities, and his skills could complement teammates like Julius Randle and Michael Porter Jr.
Jaxel Lendeborg, Golden State Warriors (+2500)
Lendeborg is a versatile forward joining Golden State as they aim to build another title-contending roster around Stephen Curry. This rookie could possibly earn a starting position and garner significant media attention.
Keaton Wagler, Los Angeles Clippers (+3500)
Wagler’s rise from being a low-ranked prospect to the No. 5 pick suggests there’s still potential for further development. Starting off his career alongside Darius Garland, the dynamics could shift significantly depending on possible trades involving Kawhi Leonard.
Brayden Burries, Milwaukee Bucks (+6000)
As the Bucks navigate a new era, coach Taylor Jenkins has a lot to figure out, particularly with Burries being their first draft centerpiece after Giannis. He’ll have the chance to step into a key scoring role similar to his standout year in Arizona and aims to make a significant impact right from the start.
