NBA Rookie Scale Big Board V.3
The No Ceilings crew installs the third edition of their Rookie Scale Big Board.
The NBA season is rapidly approaching the playoffs, as March Madness kicks off on the NCAA side of things. While we here at No Ceilings are locked into many leagues around the world in addition to the NBA, it’s important for us to keep the real goal in mind when it comes to prospect evaluation: how all of these players might perform when they reach the most competitive basketball league in the world. With that in mind, we’ve started a new project this season: the Rookie Scale Big Board. For us to keep a good handle on what will work for the future young prospects in the league, we have to keep pace with what is working for the young prospects who have already started their NBA journeys.
For those of you who missed the previous editions of our Rookie Scale Big Board: this board takes a deeper look at players who are currently in the league, playing on their rookie contract (or, in the case of some former second round picks, players who have inked extensions but would still be on their rookie deals had they been selected in the first round).
This board isn’t meant to be a ranking of the best young NBA players at this current moment. While we are certainly considering current production, we’re also still focused on how these young players continue to project moving forward. We know that development isn’t linear; there’s no reason to completely write a prospect off because they may struggle early on in their career while they adjust to the NBA game.
With the understanding that the NBA talent pool is deeper than ever, this board serves as a recalibration for not only what it takes to become a star but also what it takes just to become one of the Top 30 young players in the league. It’s a reminder that the superstar bar is sky-high, and this exercise helps us keep our expectations and narratives grounded while we discuss the stars of tomorrow who have yet to hit NBA hardwood.
As with any other Big Board on the No Ceilings site, the Rookie Scale Big Board rankings reflect a cumulative average of the No Ceilings collective’s individual rankings to capture each player’s progression throughout the NBA season.
Without further ado, here is our third and final Rookie Scale Big Board of the 2024-2025 season.
Previous Ranking: 1st
Position: C
Measurements: 7’3”, 235
Season: 2nd
Drafted: 1st Overall (2023)
Metcalf: Victor Wembanyama’s DVT injury is a scary one, but it could’ve been much worse. Thankfully, they caught it when they did, but Wembanyama was robbed of plenty this year from it. For starters, he likely would’ve been one of the top vote-getters for Defensive Player of the Year and in the conversation for All-NBA spots. Additionally, he missed out on making a potential playoff push and building chemistry with De’Aaron Fox. While this season won’t end in an ideal fashion, Wembanyama still showed more than enough to retain this top spot. While healthy, Wembanyama continued to prove that his predraft and rookie year hype wasn’t just mythology-building. He single-handedly controls the defensive end and has barely scratched the surface of what he can do offensively. Let’s hope that the health scares are minimal going forward, because the league is his for the taking.
Previous Ranking: 2nd
Position: F/C
Measurements: 7’1”, 208
Season: 2nd*
Drafted: 2nd Overall (2022)
Corey: Chet Holmgren isn’t just riding the wave from his impressive rookie season—he’s amplifying it. Holmgren is already one of the league’s most impactful players, ranking top 25 in EPM per Dunks & Threes, and his unicorn-esque skill set gives OKC the kind of lineup flexibility most teams can only dream about. Need rim protection? He’s sending back 2.5 shots a night. Want to play five-out? He’s drilling threes and creating space for OKC’s guards to carve up defenses. Whether he’s stretching the floor as a solo big or sharing the frontcourt with Isaiah Hartenstein to give the Thunder a more traditional look, Holmgren’s versatility is a cheat code. His relentless motor, defensive instincts, and ability to toggle between roles make him the kind of player who bends the game in his team’s favor night after night.
Previous Ranking: 5th
Position: G
Measurements: 6’6”, 220
Season: 4th
Drafted: 1st Overall (2021)
Rucker: What a year it’s been for Cade Cunningham. Any time you’re a young guard in this league, especially if you’re a former number one overall pick, fans are going to want to see results. They want to see early if you can prove you’re “the guy” on the court. Then, the next thing on that list is showing if you can will your team to becoming a winner. That second question has been answered in a big way this year. Detroit finds itself in the middle of playoff contention, as they are reaching distance away from jumping as high as fourth in the East. After a strong first half of the season, Cunningham has taken his game up another notch after the All-Star break when it comes to his efficiency. Still just 23 years old, Cunningham looks to be on the path to stardom in the league, and the Pistons are on the rise.
Previous Ranking: 3rd
Position: F
Measurements: 6’10”, 250
Season: 3rd
Drafted: 1st Overall (2022)
Rowan: The last time I checked in on Paolo Banchero, there was palpable hope for the Magic. The team had survived his absence, followed by Franz Wagner’s, and was sitting at 22-17 in the East when Banchero returned on January 10th. Since he returned, however, the Magic have hit a protracted skid, going 10-20 with Banchero at the helm. When watching him play, it’s clear that Banchero is still working his way back into his best and most consistent shape. Since his return, he’s shooting 43.5% from the field, 32.2% from three, and 2.9 turnovers. For as many takeover 40-balls as he’s had for the Magic, Banchero’s shot selection has been one of the more significant issues for a team stuck in neutral on offense. This streak has cast a slight pale on Banchero’s potential ceiling as a leading offensive engine in the NBA, but neither he nor the Magic have played well enough on offense to make any firm judgments yet.
Previous Ranking: 6th
Position: F/C
Measurements: 6’11”, 215
Season: 4th
Drafted: 3rd Overall (2021)
Stephen: Evan Mobley has been the physical embodiment of the success of the Cleveland Cavaliers in the month of March. They have been 6-1 this month when Evan has played (he’s missed two games to this point). During that stretch, he has shot 56% from the floor and 35% from deep. His offensive consistency has allowed Cleveland to have the offense flow through him, and we’ve seen him average over 3 APG as a result. Since he can play the four and the five, Cleveland can be versatile in their lineups. His floor spacing makes him and Jarrett Allen work in a lineup together, while his anchoring can let his team get away with playing less impactful defenders for an offensive punch. Evan doesn’t seem to be letting up on the gas, which is why he can continue to be relied upon to be recognized with individual accolades while the Cavs stack up the Ws.
Previous Ranking: 4th
Position: G/F
Measurements: 6’5”, 195
Season: 3rd
Drafted: 12th Overall (2022)
Albert: The Thunder are favorites to come out of the West and win the title this season, and Jalen Williams has been a key cog in their success. In a lot of ways, Jalen Williams is the embodiment of the Thunder roster-building philosophy. He’s a big and long wing who can dribble, pass, and shoot. He’s a load on defense with his strength, length, and ability to defend multiple positions. Considering all of SGA’s strengths and weaknesses, having a guy like Jalen Williams next to him is the perfect fit. To Williams’s credit, he’s also worked on his game and has improved in almost every offensive category over his first three seasons, and that all culminated in his first All-Star team selection this season. Williams’s ability to handle the ball and shoulder some of the offensive burden next to SGA has been an incredible bonus. He’s averaging 5.3 assists per game to go along with the 21.3 points and 5.5 rebounds. If the Thunder are going to win the title this season, Jalen Williams will be heavily involved.
Previous Ranking: 7th
Position: F
Measurements: 6’10”, 225
Season: 4th
Drafted: 8th Overall (2021)
Maxwell: Franz Wagner is the type of player every NBA team desires—he’s a big wing who can return value on both ends of the floor. While injuries have ravaged the Magic at points this season, it’s given Wagner a chance to expand his game on offense. His 24.3 PPG is a career high, as is his 26.6 AST%. Even with increased attention from opposing defense, Wagner managed to reduce his turnover rate. On defense, he has the size, strength, and agility to cover multiple positions. Away from the ball, his feel and instincts allow him to act as a disruptive force. There is still room for growth. He’s a poor catch-and-shoot option from deep (28.7%), and he needs to get more comfortable as a mid-range scorer. Whether or not Wagner can reach his ceiling will largely be tied to his development as an outside scorer. With that being said, his combination of skill, savvy, length, and strength has solidified him as one of the league’s best young players.
Previous Ranking: 8th
Position: C
Measurements: 6’11”, 235
Season: 4th
Drafted: 16th Overall, 2021
Nick: It has been quite a year for Alperen Sengun and the Houston Rockets, so it’s no surprise that some of the biggest risers on this edition of the Rookie Scale rankings are members of the Houston Rockets. Since the last Rookie Scale rankings, Sengun made his first All-Star appearance, and his game continues to shine; he leads the Rockets in rebounding, and he is second in both points and assists per game. Sengun’s ability to operate as a hub offensively opens the game up for his teammates, and his improved defense (even though he still has plenty of room to grow on that end) is vital for a Rockets team that does its best work on that end of the floor. While his shooting has not taken the step forward that many would have hoped for after his breakout last season, Sengun is still one of the most offensively punishing bigs in the league. The Rockets themselves are in the middle of a breakout year, and with Sengun and plenty of other young talents on the roster, the future looks bright in Houston.
Previous Ranking: 12th
Position: G/F
Measurements: 6’7”, 209
Season: 2nd
Drafted: 4th Overall (2023)
Jam: Thompson’s sophomore leap has been pivotal in Houston’s emergence as one of the best teams in the NBA and a likely top four seed in the West. His high-level two-way play and versatility are proving to be an excellent fit for Coach Udoka’s defensive identity. Thompson’s ability to stuff the stat sheet, create advantages, and impact winning in a multitude of ways despite still having plenty of room to grow as a reliable shooting threat is incredibly impressive. Houston has a perennial Defensive Player of the Year caliber player and an elite two-way lead guard on their hands.
Previous Ranking: 9th
Position: F
Measurements: 6’9”, 201
Season: 2nd
Drafted: 2nd Overall (2023)
Maxwell: Brandon Miller has put together a solid sophomore campaign for the Charlotte Hornets. He’s been able to take on a larger usage burden, shoot more threes, and display more of the playmaking chops that made him so intriguing coming out of college. Defensively, his length, awareness, and ground coverage have made him one of the better perimeter options for the Hornets. He’s not without his limitations. The biggest issue plaguing his game has been his interior finishing, as he’s only made 37.5% of his halfcourt rim attempts. He still needs to get stronger and improve his gather footwork. Still, there’s a lot to like. Miller has NBA wing size, he’s a high-volume bomber, a reliable decision maker, and a defensive playmaker. His future remains bright in Charlotte.
Previous Ranking: 10th
Position: F
Measurements: 6’7”, 227
Season: 4th
Drafted: 4th Overall (2021)
Metcalf: Scottie Barnes continues to be equal parts fascinating and polarizing. The main selling point with Barnes is still his combination of size, defense, and playmaking. At his position, there are incredibly few players who post the defensive playmaking and rebounding numbers that he does. When you then add in his passing, he gets into pretty rare company. Unfortunately, he continues to be a non-shooter and a minimal scoring threat. Despite averaging 19.5 points per game, Barnes is posting career lows in field goal, three-point, and effective field goal percentages. Barnes ranks in the 10th percentile in effective field goal rate, the 43rd percentile in at-rim finishing, and the ninth percentile in three-point shooting. A major factor in Barnes’s struggles is the team context, which is yet again one of the worst offenses in the league. However, Barnes still plays a major role in those inefficiencies. Barnes’s upside and impact are obvious, but his situation and how he’s playing into it feels like we’re getting the bare minimum from him.
Previous Ranking: 11th
Position: F
Measurements: 6’9”, 220
Season: 4th
Drafted: 20th Overall (2021)
Rowan: Although a shoulder injury cut his season short, Jalen Johnson showed enough in the first half of the 2024-2025 NBA season to cement himself as one of the most exciting young players in the league. Johnson set career highs in points per game, rebounds per game, assists, steals, blocks, free-throw attempts: you name it. Johnson’s high-flying athleticism, heady defense, and quick reactions as a passer elevated him to one of the most productive forwards in the Eastern Conference. He could still stand to improve his jump shooting to give his offense more room to breathe, but there were already some calls for Jalen Johnson to make the All-Star team this season. Another season like this one should see him receive his well-deserved flowers for his two-way play.
Previous Ranking: 15th
Position: F
Measurements: 6’8”, 206
Season: 4th
Drafted: 17th Overall (2021)
Rucker: Trey Murphy III has quickly become one of the most important pieces on the roster for the New Orleans Pelicans. Unfortunately, Murphy became the latest player to catch the injury bug that the Pelicans have dealt with all year. The team announced on March 17th that Murphy was diagnosed with a torn labrum and partial tear of the rotator cuff in his right shoulder. He will now be out for the remainder of the season. Murphy was having the best year of his career, seeing a massive jump in production across the board. He averaged 21.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.1 steals per game while shooting 36.1% from downtown. For a team that will be fascinating to monitor surrounding the upcoming draft, Murphy will be viewed as a franchise building block moving forward.
Previous Ranking: 13th
Position: G
Measurements: 6’5”, 205
Season: 4th
Drafted: 5th overall (2021)
Nick: If they hadn’t already, the NBA world realized this season just how important Jalen Suggs is to the success of the Orlando Magic. In a year marred by injuries to all three of their biggest players, the Magic managed to weather the storm–until Suggs went down. His sensational point-of-attack defense and complementary guard play offensively were critical to Orlando’s breakout campaign last season, just as they were this season. While Suggs has been ruled out for the rest of this season after quad surgery, the future remains bright for the Second Team All-Defensive guard, who is locked into the Magic core for years to come after inking a five-year, $150.5 million contract in the offseason. If some of the offensive growth that he showed this season when forced into a bigger role carries over into the future, Suggs could be in for plenty more awards to line his trophy case going forward.
Previous Ranking: 20th
Position: G
Measurements: 6’8”, 195
Season: 3rd
Drafted: 8th Overall (2022) (New Orleans Pelicans)
Stephen: The New Orleans Pelicans should thank the Dallas Mavericks for making poor personnel decisions, because moving Dyson Daniels (and a haul) for Dejounte Murray continues to look worse as the season moves on. Plenty of people knew that Daniels had the type of frame and defensive acumen that would make him a menace for teams on that end of the floor. He’s been the hound on defense all year that many expected, but he has averaged three steals per game during the great month of March. On top of that, Dyson is shooting over 42% from deep on two attempts per game. His activity on the boards and ability to move the ball intelligently has finally given the Hawks a player that makes some sense, supplementing the ball handling with Tre Young. If Dyson continues to produce at this level, he will be bringing home some hardware for his individual growth while contributing to team success.
Previous Ranking: 23rd
Position: G
Measurements: 6’6”, 215
Season: 1st
Drafted: 4th Overall (2024)
Jam: In a season where the Rookie of the Year is wide open, Stephon Castle is sitting at the top of the board of leading contenders. His confidence appears to grow by the game and was on full display during All-Star weekend, where he took home the 2025 Rising Stars MVP trophy. Even with expected lumps, Castle has already been every bit of the tough and versatile defender that was projected while impressing as a self-creator, shotmaker, and playmaker. The Spurs must be thrilled with their long-term two-way backcourt pairing of Castle and Fox alongside their generational superstar, Victor Wembanyama.
Previous Ranking: 14th
Position: C
Measurements: 7’1”, 230
Season: 2nd
Drafted: 12th Overall (2023)
Corey: Dereck Lively II wasted no time making his presence felt in Dallas, proving himself as one of the NBA’s most impactful young bigs. He’s a dream rim-runner—long, explosive, and an elite lob target with a massive catch radius. His efficiency is no accident; he stays within himself offensively, finishing everything at the rim while flashing some sneaky-good passing chops out of the short roll. Defensively, his timing, instincts, and ability to cover ground make him a legitimate paint deterrent, not just a highlight-reel shot blocker. Since he went down with an injury in mid-January, though, the Mavericks have had to navigate life without him, and his long-term trajectory now comes with a wrinkle—without Luka Doncic spoon-feeding him easy buckets, how much does his offensive ceiling shift? Adding strength and expanding his scoring package would go a long way in making sure his game isn’t just dependent on elite playmaking around him. Even so, his defensive versatility and rim presence give him a sturdy foundation as a long-term impact big.
Previous Ranking: 24th
Position: G
Measurements: 6’3”, 202
Season: 2nd
Drafted: 3rd Overall (2023)
Albert: Plain and simple, Scoot Henderson hasn’t had the start to his career that he probably thought he would have. If you look at just the stats on the back of his basketball card, you might think that Scoot has regressed even more in his second season. Although some of his counting stats are lower this season, he’s overall looked more comfortable and seems to be finding more of the Scoot we thought we would get as soon as he marched into the league. Portland has been one of the most fun rosters in the league as Coach Billups has them playing a hard-nosed defensive brand of basketball. With their wide array of interesting talent, Scoot has done a good job of fitting in with the rest of the roster in season two. The shooting efficiency still needs to come up for him to reach his offensive ceiling, but the shot looks smoother. The biggest growth area for him this season has been the decrease in turnovers, and some of that seems to be coming from his adjustment to the speed of the NBA game. He looks more comfortable and not as sped up. It’s also important to note that Coach Billups has kept Scoot accountable during the season, even pulling him from the starting unit when necessary.
Previous Ranking: 27th
Position: G
Measurements: 6’6”, 200
Season: 3rd
Drafted: 7th Overall (2022)
Corey: Smooth. That’s the best way to describe Shaedon Sharpe—whether he’s gliding through the lane, rising up for a jumper, or effortlessly finishing above the rim, everything he does just looks natural. Now in his third season, he’s been a driving force behind Portland’s push into the play-in conversation, flashing the kind of dynamic scoring and elite athleticism that make him a nightmare to defend. His size, movement shooting, and off-ball instincts perfectly complement Scoot Henderson, while his cutting and vertical pop should form a natural synergy with Donovan Clingan in the years ahead. But if there’s one thing you want to see more of, it’s aggression—Sharpe has all the tools to be a foul-drawing machine, yet he too often settles for tough jumpers instead of attacking the rim. Tightening his handle and embracing more physicality could unlock another level for him. The flashes of brilliance are undeniable—now it’s about sharpening the edges and turning those flashes into sustained dominance.
Previous Ranking: 22nd
Position: G
Measurements: 6’4”, 195
Season: 3rd
Drafted: 5th Overall (2022)
Metcalf: Jaden Ivey suffering that injury was one of the biggest bummers of this season. Before he got hurt, Ivery was having the best season of his career. He was finally breaking out and looking like the explosive guard we saw at Purdue. While he’s been out, the Detroit Pistons have emerged as one of the most fun teams and stories in the league. What will make them even more fun is reinserting an elite athlete who had seemingly figured out his shot. While Cade Cunningham is clearly the building block for that entire franchise, Ivey’s offensive versatility and athleticism are looking to be a terrific complement not only to Cunningham but also to the rest of the roster.
Previous Ranking: 18th
Position: F
Measurements: 6’8”, 210
Season: 4th
Drafted: 35th Overall (2021)
Rucker: Like Trey Murphy III, New Orleans Pelicans wing Herb Jones caught a case of the injury bug as well. It was announced on February 11th that Jones would miss the remainder of the season due to a shoulder injury. Jones has cemented himself as one of the most valuable assets in the league, given his versatility and defensive ability. He’s one of those players that every NBA franchise is trying to find, and the teams that find them are doing everything in their power to keep them. Jones only managed to play 20 games this year, so the hope is that a full offseason and return to health will have him hit the ground running for the upcoming season. With Trey Murphy III and Herb Jones on the perimeter, as well as whoever New Orleans adds in the draft, the Pelicans have a dangerous amount of two-way potential on the perimeter.
Previous Ranking: 17th
Position: F
Measurements: 6’6”, 195
Season: 2nd
Drafted: 7th Overall (2023)
Jam: Despite Bilal Coulibaly’s season likely coming to an end due to a recent hamstring injury, his sophomore campaign should be considered a major success. The long, two-way wing took notable steps forward as a scorer and playmaker while handling more offensive usage and still being tasked to defend the opponent’s top perimeter options. Coulibaly’s three-point percentage drop is a bit concerning (34.6% to 28.1%) and still remains a critical swing skill that must be monitored. Either way, Couliably is shaping up to be a perennial member of the NBA’s All-Defensive Teams and a valuable long-term piece for Washington.
Previous Ranking: 26th
Position: G
Measurements: 6’4”, 178
Season: 4th
Drafted: 2nd Overall (2021)
Stephen: The Rockets have continued their winning ways as the season has progressed, and Jalen Green has (somewhat) quietly been a catalyst for that. The rise of Amen Thompson has been remarkable, but the consistent production of Green shouldn’t go unnoticed. This month, Green has averaged around 20 PPG, 6 RPG, 5 APG, and 1 SPG. His production has resulted in the Rockets going 7-3 during that stretch. To be fair, though, his efficiency hasn’t been the best, as he has posted splits of 40/35/83. That isn’t the worst stretch, but it’s in keeping with the underlying doubt that the NBA community at large has with Green being a key cog on a winning squad. Winning is the best way to silence the critics, which is why the cries directly opposing Jalen as a featured player have subsided. He’ll need to find a way to be productive and efficient to climb these rankings.
Previous Ranking: 19th
Position: C
Measurements: 7’2”, 280
Season: 1st
Drafted: 7th Overall (2024)
Albert: It’s not always the case, but it’s very common to see bigs struggle to adapt to the NBA game right out of the gates. Clingan has had a rock-solid rookie season but hit bumps along the way. He’s had some issues with foul trouble and getting acclimated to the speed and intensity of the NBA game. He’s also still working on getting his conditioning to an ideal level. With all that, the flashes have been there, and Blazers fans have much to be excited about with Clingan. The thing we knew would translate was his size; even amongst NBA bigs, Clingan is a giant. He’s got a great frame with slick feet that are rare to see with a guy his size. His defensive impact has been immediate and a welcome addition to the brand of basketball that the Blazers want to play. He’s even shown off some of the passing chops we knew he had. He’s only taken 32 threes so far this season, but that was always a skill he needed more time to develop. Although his offensive game is still pretty bare bones, the upside is there with the potential of an outside shot, his passing ability, and good touch around the rim. If Clingan can stay healthy, his defensive impact with a growing offensive game makes him a very exciting prospect.
Previous Ranking: 16th
Position: F
Measurements: 6’8”, 215
Season: 3rd
Drafted: 4th Overall (2022)
Nick: While he has continued to show impressive defensive chops, especially when it comes to his versatility on that end of the floor, it would be hard to argue that this year has not been a step backward for Keegan Murray offensively. While his diminished role offensively was all but a guarantee for Murray, given the offseason addition of DeMar DeRozan and the mid-season addition of Zach LaVine, Murray really struggled with his shot to start the season. Murray has been much better offensively, particularly shooting-wise, since he returned from an ankle injury in early January, boasting 47/38/78 shooting splits since the calendar turned to 2025, but his early-season shooting woes were a far cry from the player who broke the rookie record for three-pointers and was an offensive dynamo at Iowa. There’s plenty of hope for the future with Murray, whose overall game was clearly impacted by the weight he put on to slide up to the power forward spot this season–and that increased muscle is a huge part of why Murray has been much more effective on the glass this season. If he can pair his now-excellent defense with some of the offensive firepower he showed at times during his rookie and sophomore campaigns, Year Four could be a big one for Keegan Murray.
Previous Ranking: 25th
Position: F/C
Measurements: 7’0”, 205
Season: 1st
Drafted: 2nd Overall (2024)
Maxwell: Alex Sarr’s first season has been a bit of a bumpy road. The Wizard’s shaky guard play has made him take on a bigger share of offensive creation than most young players his size would be tasked with. His efficiency has struggled, as he’s made less than 40% of his field goals. Still, I’m incredibly optimistic about what he can become in the long term. While his three-ball has been inconsistent, his comfortability and willingness to get up triples at his age are great indicators for future success. Additionally, his ability to make decisions and place accurate passes from the top of the key has been impressive. Lastly, there’s his defense. Though he needs to get stronger, Sarr’s ground coverage, rotations, and event creation have all been as advertised. As the Wizards continue to fill out their young core, I expect him to find even more success.
Previous Ranking: 31st
Position: F
Measurements: 6’7”, 215
Season: 2nd
Drafted: 5th Overall (2023)
Rowan: While his brother’s ascent for the Houston Rockets has stolen some of the spotlight, Ausar Thompson deserves praise for improving his game this year. Thompson has established himself as a starting wing for the resurgent Pistons this season, and his dogged wing defense is a big part of why Detroit is ninth in defensive rating this season. Thompson’s also streamlined his shooting profile to take fewer threes and get to the rim a bit more, which has cut down on the deficiencies in his game from the outside. As a connective wing who can create a bit for himself, more for others, and still has a great deal of untapped potential on both ends to unlock, Thompson has raised his profile in our eyes as a player who could raise both Detroit’s floor and ceiling with his stellar play on both ends.
Previous Ranking: 28th
Position: C
Measurements: 7’4”, 305
Season: 1st
Drafted: 9th Overall (2024)
Stephen: What a rookie season it has been for the larger-than-life Zach Edey. Even though he hasn’t completed his debut year, it feels like Edey has been a Grizzly forever. March has been a fine month for the rookie big man as an individual, but Memphis has only gone 4-and-5 in their latest nine-game span with Edey. During that stretch, Zach has averaged around 10 PPG, 8 RPG, 2 BPG, and 1 APG. We should expect Edey to keep up the production as the season continues, but what lies ahead could be his greatest challenge. His style of play and role for the Grizz works during the grind of the regular season, but the concerns that he can be played off the floor in the playoffs will have a chance to be put to bed. His ability to work well with Ja Morant helps him a lot–as does his shooting about 36% from deep.
Previous Ranking: 39th
Position: G/F
Measurements: 6’6”, 210
Season: 3rd
Drafted: 6th Overall (2022)
Albert: Bennedict Mathurin seems to be hitting his stride. Heading into his third season, a lot seemed to be up in the air after missing all of the postseason last year. To Mathurin’s credit, he’s weathered a ton and has embraced any role given to him. After mostly coming off the bench in his first two seasons, Maathurin has started 47 games, the most in his young career. With a pretty long injury to Aaron Nesmith in the middle of the season, Mathurin has taken the opportunity that was handed to him to be a solid tertiary scoring option next to Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam. Recently, Mathurin has been a huge catalyst for big wins against the Timberwolves and Mavs, offering a killer instinct down the stretch of games. It seems like Coach Carlisle has a strong grip on Mathurin’s strengths and has found a nice balance of how to help him be most effective with the current roster.
Previous Ranking: 21st
Position: F
Measurements: 6’8”, 210
Season: 4th
Drafted: 7th Overall (2021)
Corey: Jonathan Kuminga has always looked the part—6’8”, explosive as they come, and capable of making plays that only a handful of players in the league can replicate. However, the challenge has always been consistency—and that remains the next step in his development. Before his injury, Kuminga was flashing some of the best performances of his career, showcasing improved scoring instincts and a better feel for when to attack. Now, as he works his way back, the real test will be finding his place in a Warriors lineup that looks very different post-Jimmy Butler trade. His ability to cut, defend multiple positions, and bring downhill juice in transition should make him a valuable piece, but with new offensive pecking orders and defensive responsibilities, carving out a steady role won’t be automatic. The physical tools and flashes have never been in question—it’s about putting it all together, night in and night out.
Previous Ranking: 50th
Position: F
Measurements: 6’8”, 220
Season: 2nd
Drafted: 52nd Overall (2023)
Rucker: It’s been an absolutely sensational season for Toumani Camara. Once viewed as a “filler” in a trade, Camara has blossomed in Portland as one of the top defensive assets in the league. There’s been a serious step forward for Camara this year, as he now looks like a potential building block for the Trail Blazers moving forward. Portland is on the right path and is taking developmental steps forward in a hurry. After averaging 7.5 points per game last year and shooting 33.7% from downtown, Camara has seen his averages jump this season. As of March 20th, he’s at 10.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.5 steals per game while shooting 37.3% from downtown on almost twice as many three-point attempts as last year.
Previous Ranking: 29th
Position: F
Measurements: 6’11”, 220
Season: 3rd
Drafted: 3rd Overall (2022)
Metcalf: Jabari Smith Jr. has clearly fallen short of the Top 3 billing he got in his draft class, but he’s also playing the most impactful basketball of his career. The biggest disappointment with Smith is that he just hasn’t been able to consistently make an impact on offense. Despite being an elite college shooter, Smith has been remarkably average with the Houston Rockets. That, combined with his lack of self-creation, has turned Smith into purely a stationary play finisher. Up until this season, that lack of offensive impact was incredibly worrisome. What’s helped quell those concerns, though, is Smith’s fantastic defense this season. Smith was also a terrific defender at Auburn, but this is the first time that his defense has resembled what we saw from him in college. He’s making a massive impact without being an overly disruptive defensive playmaker, too. When Smith is on the court, the Rockets have a defensive rating of 106.8 (97th percentile), their defensive rating is 6.1 lower with him on the court than off the court (90th percentile), and opponents have an eFG% of just 51.6% (89th percentile). Smith may not be a disruptive individual defender, but his team defense, awareness, and ability to contest without fouling have been fantastic.
Previous Ranking: 32nd
Position: G
Measurements: 6’4”, 193
Season: 2nd
Drafted: 10th Overall (2023)
Jam: OKC does a tremendous job of drafting and developing talented players who accept, embrace, and thrive in their roles. Cason Wallace is another shining example of that. A valuable player from Day One as a rookie, Wallace’s ascent is continuing as a sophomore. Wallace’s 3-and-D guard prowess has made him a key member of an OKC team that’s currently leading the NBA wins and is an obvious title contender. Whether he’s starting or coming off the bench, Wallace is a high-level rotation player who can contribute to winning at the highest levels for OKC for years to come.
Previous Ranking: 30th
Position: F
Measurements: 6’8”, 216
Season: 3rd
Drafted: 17th Overall (2022)
Nick: Tari Eason had a lost season in his sophomore campaign, only playing in 22 games due to injury. This year, though, he’s picked up right where he left off defensively as a rookie. Eason’s exceptionally quick hands and great lateral mobility make him one of the best defensive playmakers in the league, and his play mostly off the bench has been a huge factor in Houston’s ability to wreak havoc defensively for 94 feet and 48 minutes every night. In addition to his great defense, Eason has taken a step forward offensively as well, especially in terms of his finishing; Eason is shooting just under 60% at the rim this season after finishing under 52% of his looks around the basket in each of his first two seasons, per Synergy. Eason entered the starting lineup recently, and his chaos creation defensively has been a huge factor in Houston’s recent winning streak. On a Houston team loaded with young talent, Eason has continued to make his case to rise up their hierarchy of rookie scale talents.
Previous Ranking: 42nd
Position: G
Measurements: 6’6”, 218
Season: 3rd
Drafted: 21st Overall (2022)
Maxwell: Christian Braun’s third-year breakout has been a bright spot for a Nuggets team that has otherwise faced turbulence this season. Few players are more potent as complementary scorers. He’s great in transition, he’s an excellent cutter, and he attacks closeouts well. Braun has also looked fantastic in his pick-and-roll sets this year, too. He’s a good athlete and decision-maker who thrives at picking up the low-hanging fruit. Defensively, his speed, smarts, and lift help him cover a few different positions well while picking his spots as a playmaker. His reluctance to shoot threes can be frustrating, but when you’re making 64% of your twos, it’s a lot more forgivable. Braun has quietly been one of the better role players in the league this year, and he’s still only 23 years old.
Previous Ranking: 34th
Position: G
Measurements: 6’6”, 205
Season: 2nd
Drafted: 13th Overall (2023)
Rowan: Gradey Dick is currently dealing with a hyperextended knee which has pumped the brakes on his season, but he turned in a great sophomore season which has raised the stakes in his career. Dick elevated his scoring output, almost doubling his points per game and slotting in as the fourth-leading scorer on the Raptors. He’s tripled his free-throw attempts per game, knocked in 35.0% of his threes on 6.0 attempts per game, and showed more determination as a driver toward the rim. There are still some improvements that Dick can make as a creator and defender on the perimeter, but he’s bought himself the time and reps to work those out in real time with his tangible scoring improvement. While this Raptors team is in flux over their future due to their deadline addition of Brandon Ingram, Dick should feature heavily in the team’s plans, whether as a starter or a valuable bench weapon.
Previous Ranking: 45th
Position: C
Measurements: 6’10”, 250
Season: 3rd
Drafted: 13th Overall (2022)
Metcalf: Jalen Duren has been another important part of the turnaround for the Pistons. The most substantial impact that he makes is on the offensive end. He’s become incredibly efficient as a play finisher, has real chemistry with Cunningham in the pick-and-roll, and is starting to show more of the passing upside we saw from him in college. Now that the Pistons have NBA-level shooters, he has significantly more space to roll to the rim, offensive rebound, and pass out of the short roll. Unfortunately, the defensive end still remains a question. His block and rebounding numbers are encouraging, but the Pistons are a mediocre defense with him on the court and significantly worse than when he’s off the court. Duren has been solid as a help shot blocker, but he’s tough to rely on as opponents are shooting 67% at the rim, 46.1% in the midrange, and 38% from three when he’s on the court. Duren’s offensive impact continues to shine, but if he’s going to be a viable long-term starter on a legitimate playoff team, his defense has to improve.
Previous Ranking: 44th
Position: G
Measurements: 6’5”, 206
Season: 4th
Drafted: Undrafted (2021)
Rucker: It seems as if this is the time of the year in which Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves continues to remind us just how good he is. Reaves continues to age like a fine wine for the Lakers. He’s having an outstanding year and has made himself one of the most valuable pieces on that Lakers roster. Reaves was averaging 19.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game at the All-Star break. After the break, his numbers have jumped to 21.3 points per game, along with 4.6 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game. His shooting splits have also taken a climb, as he’s up to 45.0% from the field and 38.1% from three.
Previous Ranking: 33rd
Position: G
Measurements: 6’2”, 185
Season: 1st
Drafted: 3rd Overall (2024)
Corey: Reed Sheppard hasn’t quite lived up to the expectations that come with being the third overall pick—at least, not yet. Struggling to find a consistent role or steady production in Houston’s rotation, his rookie season has been more of a feeling-out process than an immediate splash. However, it’s far too early to write him off. The flashes are still there—he poured in 25 points in his lone NBA start and erupted for 49 points when he got sent down to the G League, reminding everyone why he was such a highly touted prospect. Adjusting to the NBA takes time, especially on a Rockets team that just clinched its first postseason berth in five years. Patience is key. Sheppard has the shooting, feel, and skill to make an impact—it’s just a matter of when, not if, he puts it all together.
Previous Ranking: 35th
Position: G
Measurements: 6’7”, 198
Season: 2nd
Drafted: 6th Overall (2023)
Maxwell: Anthony Black has been funky and effective for the Magic in year two. The 6’7” sophomore has one of the league’s quirkiest skill sets. He’s a great connective playmaker and a smart decision-maker. He also plays with a high motor, grabbing boards, steals, and blocks at a high clip. Despite playing a bigger offensive role in more minutes, his rate stats on the glass and defensively have still taken steps forward. His quickness, exceptional hands, and size make him a Swiss army knife on D. Offensively, his scoring remains a bit of an issue. Teams know they can play back on him, and he’s shot well below league average on low volume. If he wants to reach starter-level outcomes, he’ll need to improve from distance. In the meantime, his intellect and wide-ranging production should ensure him a long NBA career.
Previous Ranking: 41st
Position: F
Measurements: 6’9”, 200
Season: 1st
Drafted: 1st Overall (2024)
Stephen: As expected, it has taken some time for Risacher to grow comfortable with NBA play, but he has started to come into his own. It’s going to be hard to live up to the #1 overall pick expectations, but averaging around 15 PPG, 4 RPG, 1 APG, 1 SPG, and 1 BPG is a nice way to start. February was a strong month for Zaccharie, and this month has been much of the same. The Hawks have gone 6-3 so far, with their young star putting up splits of 53/42/83. This combination of production and efficiency has been a bright spot for Atlanta. While his team has to iron out a few different kinks that exist within their game, Risacher has stepped up to become a reliable perimeter player with a real future ahead of him.
Previous Ranking: 37th
Position: G
Measurements: 6’5”, 193
Season: 3rd
Drafted: 31st Overall (2022)
Jam: Drafted 31st overall in the 2022 draft, Nembhard is proving to be one of the best second round steals in recent memory. After being an instant contributor over his first two seasons, including a breakout two-way performance in last season’s playoffs, he was rewarded with a three-year, $59 million dollar extension. Nembhard’s ability to play on and off the ball next to Haliburton and operate as a lead handler without Haliburton on the floor has made him an invaluable piece for the Pacers. His three-point drop to 31.4% in his first full season as a starter is slightly concerning, but his shotmaking prowess and roughly 35% mark the previous two seasons should be enough reason not to panic. The Haliurton-Nembhard backcourt will be a fun and dynamic pace-pushing duo to watch in the East for the next several years.
Previous Ranking: 40th
Position: G
Measurements: 6’4”, 185
Season: 2nd
Drafted: 16th Overall (2023)
Nick: It has been a lost season for Keyonte George and the last place Utah Jazz, but George has shown flashes of the shotmaking and passing potential that led the Jazz to select him in the first round last season. George has made real progress as a playmaker this season, and he has looked more comfortable both in running the offense and in being a secondary creator around the other primary scorers for the Jazz. George has significantly boosted his assist rate while lowering his turnover rate–a difficult but important duo for any young guard to manage to pull off. However, his continued inefficiency as a scorer is worrying for a combo guard like George; while it’s hard to really question anyone’s shot selection on a moribund team that started tanking in November, George’s struggles to put the ball in the basket are still cause for concern. There are still plenty of moments when he looks like the player his biggest believers thought he could be heading into last year’s draft, but Keyonte George will need to take a big step forward in Year Three to keep pace with the rest of the NBA’s incredibly talented group of young guards.
Previous Ranking: 47th
Position: C
Measurements: 7’0”, 240
Season: 3rd
Drafted: 15th Overall (2022)
Albert: There’s a reason why the Lakers tried to trade for Mark Williams at the deadline; there’s also a reason why they rescinded the trade and brought Dalton Knecht back. As alluring as Mark Williams is as a prospect, there have been some huge red flags regarding his health. So far this season, Williams has only played 35 games and has only played in 93 total games throughout his three-year career. Even with the injuries, Williams is still a very interesting prospect because of how productive he is when he’s on the floor. Not only is he a defensive anchor who can influence the game with his length and strength, but he’s also an intriguing offensive player with his passing ability and skills as a screener. If Williams can hit a nice run of health, the Hornets might take him off the trade block and try to keep him long-term.
Previous Ranking: 36th
Position: G
Measurements: 6’5”, 205
Season: 2nd
Drafted: 19th Overall (2023)
Rowan: It’s been a tale of two halves for Podziemski, as he struggled to match the rookie readiness he showed last season until the Jimmy Butler trade. However, after the Warriors shortened and streamlined their rotation with the trade, Podziemski has taken off, coinciding with his return to the starting lineup. With his increased usage and leash, Podziemski has shown off the same heady all-around guard play that made him a valuable piece for the Warriors last year. He could still shore up his shot selection to improve his efficiency, but his perimeter defense, ball movement, and aggression are all net positives on Golden State’s offense. It’s exciting to think about where else he can take his game now that he’s shown the ability to ride out rough streaks in the NBA.
Previous Ranking: 49th
Position: G
Measurements: 6’4”, 210
Season: 4th
Drafted: 27th Overall (2021)
Jam: Limited to just 25 games this season due to an injury-plagued season, Cam Thomas still left no doubt that he’s a bucket and one of the most gifted scorers in the NBA. Thomas averaged 24.0 PPG, including six games with 30 points or more, highlighted by a 43-point outburst against the Knicks. Playmaking has long been one of the primary swing skills for him, and he’s taken a recognizable step forward (career-high 3.8 APG). Thomas dished out 5.8 APG over his last five games and produced his first career double-double in his last game (24 points and 10 assists). That’s the impression you want to leave before hitting free agency. Thomas is set to be a polarizing free agent who’s shown his floor and could perhaps just be starting to tap into his ceiling.
Previous Ranking: 48th
Position: F
Measurements: 6’8”, 230
Season: 3rd
Drafted: 9th Overall (2022)
Albert: If you pull up Jeremy Sochan’s stats over the course of his three-year career, it’s pretty alarming to see how little change there has been. The stats look pretty identical year over year and I think that speaks to the kind of prospect and player he’s going to be. Sochan is a very useful frontcourt player who can do various things for your team. He won’t lead your team in points or any stat, but he’s a guy who completes or rounds out a roster. Like the Yankees of the late 90s, he’s not Derek Jeter or Bernie Williams. He’s more like a Luis Sojo, a guy that you can’t really seem to win without but is never one of the marquee guys on the squad. He’s never afraid to get involved with other squads and offers energy on both ends of the floor.
Previous Ranking: 43rd
Position: F
Measurements: 6’8”, 240
Season: 2nd
Drafted: 8th Overall (2023)
Rucker: The hope was that Indiana Pacers forward Jarace Walker would be ready to take on a bigger role in his second season. Unfortunately, the production and minutes haven’t come around on a consistent level. When you ask around the NBA, you’ll often get a “golden rule” when it comes to evaluating young players. Teams usually like to wait three years and then re-evaluate their own talent. There’s no denying that Indiana will be a fascinating team to monitor throughout the offseason. Plenty of attention will be paid to Walker. Could the Pacers look to use him as a piece to upgrade their roster immediately? Or will Indiana wait to see what type of offseason the young forward will have before opening up the minutes a bit next year. Time will tell, but the 21-year-old forward still has some fascinating upside.
Previous Ranking: 46th
Position: C
Measurements: 7’0”, 245
Season: 3rd
Drafted: 22nd Overall (2022)
Stephen: The Jazz have entered the Capture the Flagg sweepstakes, which means that they have been very relaxed about playing their best players like they normally would. Walker did not play in three of Utah’s last six games as they play out their season. Kessler has been productive, though, averaging a double-double and over 3 BPG. It’s clear why teams wanted to include Kessler in hypothetical trades, and it’s also clear why the Jazz were content to keep one of their best players. His ranking is more of a recognition of his team’s ambitions as opposed to his production, as Walker has continued to be one of the better big men in the league–let alone on this list.
Previous Ranking: Unranked
Position: F
Measurements: 6’8”, 206
Season: 1st
Drafted: 39th Overall (2024)
Nick: Jaylen Wells has unquestionably been the nicest surprise of this year’s rookie class. After the Grizzlies selected him with the 39th pick, the Sacramento native has played in every game for Memphis this season and started all but five of them. Wells’s tenacious defense earned him his place in the starting lineup; he has been one of the rare rookies who has made a clear positive impact defensively, and his 6’7” frame and willingness to take on any defensive assignment fearlessly have been massive boons for the Grizzlies. Wells pairs his great defense with solid complementary offensive skills; he’s a good standstill shooter and an excellent cutter who takes advantage of any openings that the defense might give him. Wells could stand to expand his shooting versatility–he’s only taken 16 shots off screens this season, per Synergy, and getting better at shooting off movement would open up his offensive game even further. Still, Wells has quickly cemented himself as a mainstay for one of the best teams in the Western Conference; he’s already miles ahead of expectations, and he has plenty of room to grow.
Previous Ranking: 52nd
Position: G
Measurements: 6'8”, 210
Season: 4th
Drafted: 6th Overall (2021)
Maxwell: The Josh Giddey experience can be a frustrating one. He’s not always consistent from deep, and his defensive effort can be lackluster. With that being said, he quietly improved where it mattered this season. He’s shooting a career-best percentage from deep on the highest volume of his career, and his off-ball defense has come a long way. He’s making more of an effort to stay in front and displaying more engagement as a helper. Giddey’s lack of athleticism will always be a ceiling inhibitor, but his feel and size will always make him intriguing. If he can continue to knock down threes and hold up his end of the bargain defensively, he could start to shed the reputation that he’s not a winning player.
Previous Ranking: 38th
Position: F
Measurements: 6’6”, 225
Season: 2nd
Drafted: 18th Overall (2023)
Corey: Jaime Jaquez Jr.’s sophomore campaign has felt like a bit of a slump, with his minutes and production dropping across the board. After a promising rookie season, it’s been a rougher adjustment as he’s tried to find consistency, particularly with the Miami Heat in a bit of NBA no-man’s land. Post-Jimmy Butler trade, they’re a team caught between two worlds—some intriguing young talents like Jaquez, alongside solid vets, but no clear path to climbing into the upper echelon of the league. For Jaquez, the next step is clear: improving his shooting. It was always the big question mark coming out of the draft, and now it feels more critical than ever. His defensive versatility, basketball IQ, and playmaking are there, but if he can find a reliable jumper to complement those skills, he could become a key piece for the Heat as they retool for the future. It's about finding that balance—leveraging his strengths while improving the areas that can unlock his full potential.
Previous Ranking: Unranked
Position: G
Measurements: 6’5”, 190
Season: 3rd
Drafted: 35th Overall (2022)
Metcalf: Max Christie continues to emerge as one of the most fun young role players in the league. This year is by far the most that Christie has played, and he’s earned every minute of it. He continues to improve as a shooter, off-ball scorer, and defender. While his shot has always looked promising, his defense has always been what’s gotten him minutes. Now that the shooting and scoring consistency have caught up, Christie is showcasing exactly what teams want from their off-ball wing role players. Christie hasn’t shown much of anything in terms of being able to consistently create for himself or others, but he doesn’t need to do that. As long as he can make the simple reads, knock down shots off the catch, make timely cuts, attack closeouts, and defend, he’ll be an important piece in any rotation he’s in going forward.
Previous Ranking: 51st
Position: F
Measurements: 6’9”, 245
Season: 2nd
Drafted: 57th Overall (2023)
Rowan: After a solid rookie season, Trayce Jackson-Davis finds himself on the periphery of Golden State’s rotation after some steps back in his game. The biggest issue for Jackson-Davis in the NBA has been his finishing, which is paramount for a more limited big man. Per Synergy, Jackson-Davis is shooting just above 40.0% on lay-ups this season, which is way too low for a big man receiving dimes from Jimmy Butler and Stephen Curry. It’s also telling that Jackson-Davis’s dwindling minutes have conceded with the resurgence from the Warriors. There’s still time for him to improve his touch at the basket and return to the rotation, but the limitations that Jackson-Davis had at Indiana are starting to show up more for him in the NBA.
Previous Ranking: 54th
Position: F
Measurements: 6’9”, 215
Season: 2nd
Drafted: 45th Overall (2023)
Corey: GG Jackson's second season has been a bit of a mixed bag. After missing most of the year, he’s now been back for the last 25 games, but finding consistency has been a struggle—both in terms of efficiency and carving out a clear role with a veteran-heavy Memphis squad. The Grizzlies, as a whole, have been up and down recently, and Jackson is still figuring out how he fits into a rotation that’s focused on making a playoff push. His raw tools—size, fluidity, and scoring potential—make him an intriguing long-term prospect for Memphis, but with the team locked in on contending, his role might not grow much more as the postseason looms. Jackson’s future is promising, but for now, it’s about development and waiting for the game to slow down enough for him to show his true potential.
Previous Ranking: 56th
Position: F
Measurements: 6’10”, 209
Season: 3rd
Drafted: 27th Overall (2022)
Stephen: With the Jimmy Butler vs. Miami saga laid to rest, things have been relatively quiet for the Heat and their players on a national level. It would be a great opportunity for a player like Nikola Jovic to benefit from that, but he hasn’t played a game since late February. Jovic broke the second metacarpal in his right hand against the Bucks, and he has been listed as questionable in Miami’s most recent games. It will be interesting to see if Jovic can build upon the 23-game stretch he had prior to his injury, where he averaged about 13 PPG, 4 RPG, and 4 APG–with splits of 46/37/84. It would be welcomed by Miami, with Butler leaving some slack to be picked up by his former team.
Previous Ranking: Unranked
Position: G
Measurements: 6’5”, 190
Season: 4th
Drafted: 55th Overall (2021)
Albert: Aaron Wiggins might be too low on this list. You can’t help but wonder how good Wiggins would be if he wasn’t on the Thunder. Wiggins is incredibly valuable coming off the bench for the Thunder, but on a stacked roster like theirs, it’s hard for him to get more than 22.6 minutes per night. To his credit, Wiggins makes the most out of every minute he’s given on the floor. Wiggins is taking the most threes of his career at just under five per game and is hitting 38.8% of them. Not only has he grown as an outside shooter, but his scoring around the rim has improved as well. He’s also a rock-solid defender who fits right in with how the Thunder want to play. If you add that he’s also on a team-friendly contract and doesn’t hit free agency again until 2029, what's there not to like?
Previous Ranking: Unranked
Position: F
Measurements: 6’8”, 216
Season: 1st
Drafted: 28th Overall (2024)
Rucker: The Phoenix Suns have been a bit of a nightmare this year. There’s no sugarcoating it. It seemed like the overall depth of the Suns roster could eventually come into question at some point. Phoenix was getting some promising early returns from their draft class, but it seemed as if that idea could run its course, especially with most rookies hitting a wall during their first year. Before you knew it, the Suns were struggling and trying to correct their course. That resulted in the team trying to lean on some veterans to get things back on track. Dunn had a solid start to his rookie campaign. Eventually, he fell out of the rotation, including a 21-game stretch in which he only averaged 10.8 minutes per game. When teams realize they are probably out of the playoff picture, they will often start to play younger players more minutes to finish up the year for their development. That’s just what Phoenix has done. In Dunn’s last four games, he’s averaged 27.5 minutes per game, and the production has been promising. During that span, Dunn has averaged 15.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.0 steals per game while shooting 32.1% from deep. He’s still a tremendous piece for this Suns roster and should be a player poised for a nice leap in Year Two with a strong offseason.
Previous Ranking: 57th
Position: G
Measurements: 6’3”, 178
Season: 4th
Drafted: 18th Overall (2021)
Metcalf: Tre Mann’s emergence last year as a competent guard was so much fun. This year, he’s unfortunately been out for most of it with a back injury. It doesn’t help that this Hornets team has been a mess, but it’s tough to gauge Mann’s outlook going forward. Was last year just a blip on a bad team or the start of a career turnaround? Based on some of his numbers to start the year, we hope it’s the latter. With this time off to recover and a full offseason, Mann can hopefully come back next season with the same offensive flair we’ve gotten used to and at least provide solid backup minutes.
Previous Ranking: Unranked
Position: G
Measurements: 6’4”, 175
Season: 3rd
Drafted: Undrafted (2022)
Nick: It wouldn’t be fair to say that Keon Ellis was the reason that Mike Brown got fired, but Ellis’s early-season DNP-CDs were greeted with outrage from the Kings fanbase for a reason. Ellis showcased his exceptional defensive gifts and elite shooting in his starting stint down the stretch of last season, and he’s been even better in both areas this season despite his inconsistent playing time. Ellis is one of the league’s best chaos creators defensively; he ranks second in the league in Deflections per 36 minutes, and sixth in total deflections despite his relatively limited playing time compared to the league leaders in that category. In addition to the havoc that he causes as a team defender, Ellis’s defensive aptitude also allows the rest of the Kings roster to slide into more comfortable individual roles on that end of the floor. Furthermore, his floor spacing is sorely needed for a Kings squad that ranks in the bottom 10 in three-point makes, attempts, and percentage. While plenty of five-man lineups for the Kings have struggled this season, Ellis is the one constant in their five best lineups with 50+ minutes played by Net Rating, per the NBA’s stats database. Simply put, Keon Ellis makes everybody around him better on both ends of the floor. If he gets to play consistent minutes under Doug Christie or whoever the Kings hire as their head coach next season, Ellis will become a much better-known name outside of Sacramento.
Even if we take rankings out of the equation, I don't understand why the Wizards duo of Bub Carrington and Kyshawn George weren't included. You can't tell me Bub isn't better than Tre Mann (who has only shown about a month of competence in three NBA seasons) or that the Suns wouldn't rather have the multifaceted George than Ryan Dunn, a guy with limited upside who's a non-factor offensively.
Aslo: Jarace Walker made the list? Really?
Ah Quinten Post? ah Moses Moody? This list is wank