2024 NBA Rookie Ladder, Volume One
The 2024 NBA Rookie Class has been criticized more than any in recent memory, and there is no clear cut Rookie of the Year front-runner.
TOP TEN
Reed Sheppard- Rockets (RD1, PK3)
Reed might be a surprise to many at number one, but I truly would not be surprised to see him starting at guard by the end of the season. Sheppard can do everything on the offensive side of the floor, and while the Rockets have a plethora of young talent, I would bet on Reed to outperform many of them.
Dalton Knecht- Lakers (RD1, PK17)
Knecht only fell in the draft because of his age. Well, after one game of real action and multiple stellar summer league performances, I think his age makes him one of the most NBA-ready rookies in the class. Lakers head coach J.J. Reddick has been open about his team’s need to shoot more threes. Knecht’s size makes him suitable on the defensive end, especially with Anthony Davis and Hachimura ready to help, and his stroke from three will certainly get him on the floor. Expect big things from the 23-year-old.
Stephon Castle- Spurs (RD1, PK4)
Castle was a great all-around player at UCONN, and I expect a similar style of production in the NBA. The presence of Chris Paul and Wembanyama should allow Castle to learn while he takes a back seat to others, something that top 5 picks can’t always do.
Zach Edey- Grizzlies (RD1, PK9)
Edey was voted to win ROTY by executives for a reason. He shined in his few appearances in summer league, and is likely the easiest plug-and-play guy in the class. If he can stay healthy, he should benefit immensely from a fresh Ja Morant who is looking to wreak havoc on the league after missing nearly all of last year. I’m not necessarily sold on Edey being the league’s best rookie, but the former Big Ten player of the year should find success relatively quickly.
Zaccharie Risacher- Hawks (RD1, PK1)
While Risacher has lofty expectations, they’re not as high as most number one picks. I doubt he’ll end the season as the league’s best rookie, but he certainly has promise. His length and athleticism give him the potential to be elite on the defensive end, and he already possesses the ability to be a reliable spot-up shooter. If he can find a way to get better creating his own shot, he should be a perfect pairing for Trae Young.
Rob Dillingham- T-Wolves (RD1, PK8)
While many were surprised to see Bronny take the floor before Dillingham in their first game, the lack of playmaking outside of Anthony Edwards indicates that Rob should find a role on this Timberwolves team. Rob boasts one of the best handles in the rookie class, and showed flashes of offensive dominance in the summer league. Dillingham should alleviate some of the pressure that is placed on Conley and Edwards to run offensive sets, but clearly he needs to prove that he will not be a defensive liability. Regardless, Dillingham was picked eighth for a reason, and his talent will undoubtedly make him successful on the offensive side of the floor.
Donnovan Clingan- Blazers (RD1, PK7)
Like Edey, Clingan should have a smoother transition to the NBA than some of the more ball-dominant players. If he gets time, I expect him to be successful with Portland, with Walker Kessler rookie-year like production.
Carlton ‘Bub’ Carrington- Wizards (RD1, PK14)
I might be higher on Carrington than most; however, I expect him to shine this season. He should eventually find a role on the Wizards, one of the worst teams in basketball, and his summer league performances prove that he can run an offense if given the chance.
Alexandre Sarr- Wizards (RD1, PK2)
I’m not overly high on Sarr, but his frame and athleticism alone make it unwise to exclude the second pick in the draft on this list.
Ron holland- Pistons (RD1, PK5)
Holland is the only player on this list from the G-League, which could give him an edge in preparation. Ron looked decent in his first NBA action, and should be able to get more than 15 minutes per game on a relatively weak Pistons roster.
Honorable Mentions
Jaylon Tyson- Cavs (RD1 PK20)
Tyson was one of the most NBA-ready players in this year’s Draft class. He has a complete skill set and had an outstanding showing during the NBA Summer League. With ample playing time, I expect him to climb the ladder.
Terrence Shannon Jr.- T-Wolves (RD1 PK27)
TSJ being excluded off the list is simply based on him being drafted to a Finals contender. The athletic lefty wing would make a major impact on a number of teams in the league, but it will be interesting to see if Minnesota utilizes him this season.