5 top rookies to keep an eye on during 2024-25 NBA season
With the start of the 2024-25 NBA season right around the corner, the newly acquired players from the 2024 NBA draft await the opportunity to make their mark on the league. On that note, let's take a look at the top five rookies to keep an eye on during the upcoming season.
5 top rookies to keep an eye on during 2024-25 NBA season
#5 Matas Buzelis
Drafted 11th overall by the Chicago Bulls, Matas Buzelis is a well-rounded wing and is expected to contribute to the team on both ends of the floor. The 6-foot-9 forward is likely to open the year as a reserve and will bring his all-round game off the bench to the rebuilding Bulls squad.
Buzelis concluded the NBA Summer League averaging 16.4 points, 4.2 rebounds, 2.0 steals and 2.0 blocks for the Bulls while shooting 33.7% from the field.
#4 Alexandre Sarr
The Washington Wizards picked Alexandre Sarr second overall in the 2024 NBA draft. The 7-foot-1 big man is expected to help the Wizards with his defensive acumen after they previously allowed the most points per game last season.
While Sarr is a versatile defender, he needs to improve his offensive game to meaningfully contribute to the team on both ends. He concluded the Summer League averaging 5.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 2.5 blocks while shooting 19.1% from the field.
#3 Reed Sheppard
Picked third overall in the draft by the Houston Rockets, Reed Sheppard is expected to be one of the first options off the bench and contribute meaningfully with his 3-point shooting and steals.
The 6-foot-3 guard was impressive during the Summer League, averaging 20.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 2.8 steals and 1.3 blocks while shooting 50.0% from the field, including 27.8% from beyond the arc.
#2 Zaccharie Risacher
The first overall pick in the 2024 draft, Zaccharie Risacher, is expected to be a solid 3-and-D option playing alongside Atlanta Hawks star point guard Trae Young. Risacher is expected to effectively contribute with his off-ball play offensively and steady defensive plays.
The 6-foot-9 forward played just two games during the Summer League, averaging 14.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 2.0 assists while shooting 39.3% from the field. He missed the Hawks' final three games due to a bruised right quad. However, he has since recovered completely.
#1 Zach Edey
The Memphis Grizzlies picked Zach Edey ninth overall in the 2024 NBA draft, a decision that may be critical as they look to re-establish themselves as contenders in the upcoming season. The 7-foot-4 center is poised to play a significant role for the Grizzlies with his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor.
While Edey only played one Summer League game due to two separate ankle injuries, he displayed his impact by recording a double-double of 14 points and 15 rebounds, along with four blocks in the game. He is also one of the favorites to win the Rookie of the Year award.