As the NBA Season tips off, excitement fills the air, especially with a new wave of rookies making their debut. Each year, the draft class brings fresh talent and unique play styles, and this season is no exception. 

• Atlanta Hawks: Zaccharie Risacher

          The Atlanta Hawks selected Risacher at the number 1 pick. Standing at 6’8”, 200 lbs, with a wingspan of 8’10”. He plays at the SF/SG position. Risacher was projected to be one of the greatest prospects to ever come out of France, but looking at his previous performances in the summer league I’d beg to differ. He consecutively scored under 10 points despite playing around 20 minutes per game. 

• Washington Wizards: Alexander Sarr

          The Washington Wizards were one of the worst teams in the league during the 2023-24 NBA season, so getting the 2nd pick is no surprise. Sarr, another player out of France who plays the C/PF position, was supposed to be on par with the likes of Victor Wembanyama. Sarr, the second pick, has some of the worst stats and shooting efficiencies in the league with a field goal percentage of 29.4% and three point percentage of 18.2%.

• Houston Rockets: Reed Shepperd 

          Shepperd was one of the best players with amazing efficiency in the NCAA; Sheppard gets drafted with the number 3 pick with shooting percentages of 53.6% and three point percentage of 52.1%. Currently in the NBA his shooting percentage has almost gone down by ½. The atmosphere plays a great part in how well a rookie plays. Sheppard stands at just 6’3” with great shooting ability and only averages 2.5 points per game. If Sheppard were to get more minutes, I’m sure that his stats and efficiency would increase as well.

• San-Antonio Spurs: Robert Dillingham-traded to Minnesota Timberwolves

          Dillingham has had a challenging start to the season since being traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Initially drafted by the San Antonio Spurs, Dillingham has struggled to find playing time Despite his playing time difficulties, he has shown flashes of potential with his playmaking ability, in the Preseason. Fortunately, for Dillingham, the Timberwolves are hoping that with more playing time and experience, Dillingham can harness his talent and become a reliable contributor.

• Philadelphia 76ers: Jared McCain

          McCain has had a solid start to his NBA career with the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2024-25 season. In just three games, he’s averaging 2.7 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 0.7 assists per game. His shooting has been impressive, with a field goal percentage of 50%, indicating his efficiency on offense. While he hasn’t attempted a three-pointer yet and has recorded 0 steals, McCain’s potential as a versatile guard is evident. As he gains more experience and playing time, he has the opportunity to further develop his game and become a key player for the 76ers.

• Los Angeles Lakers: Lebron James Jr.

          James Jr. has faced a challenging start to his NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2024-25 season. Currently averaging 0.0 points, he has yet to find his rhythm. However, he has been contributing in other areas, averaging 1.0 rebound per game. Despite not recording any assists or successful field goals so far, his presence on the court reflects his potential and the high expectations that come with being part of the James legacy. As he gains experience and adjusts to the pace of the NBA, fans are hopeful he can develop into a significant contributor for the Lakers.

• Milwaukee Bucks: AJ Johnson

          Johnson, standing at 6’5” with a wingspan of 6’10”, is making his debut season with the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2024-25 NBA season. Currently averaging 0.7 points, 0.3 rebounds, and 0.0 assists per game, he has encountered challenges in finding his scoring rhythm like many other rookies who aren’t used to the defense and playstyle of the NBA. With a field goal percentage of 33.3%, Johnson is still adjusting to the pace and intensity of the league. Despite these early struggles, his size and athleticism indicate that he has the potential to develop into a valuable contributor for the Bucks as he gains more experience on the court.

• Portland Trail Blazers: Donovan Clingan

          Clingan, standing at 7’1” with a wingspan of 7’4”, has been making strides with the Portland Trail Blazers during the 2024-25 season. Averaging 4.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 0.0 assists per game, Clingan has shown his ability to contribute on the boards. His impressive field goal percentage of 63.6% indicates his efficiency around the basket. While he hasn’t recorded any assists yet, his size and rebounding skills make him a valuable asset in the paint. As he gains more experience and playing time, Clingan has the potential to become an important part of the Trail Blazers’ rotation, providing depth and interior presence.

• Memphis Grizzlies: Zach Edey

          Edey, standing at 7’4” with a wingspan of 7′ 8″, has been making a significant impact in his rookie season with the Memphis Grizzlies. Currently averaging 7.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 0.3 assists per game, Edey has showcased his scoring ability and strong presence in the paint. His field goal percentage of 56% highlights his efficiency, particularly around the basket. As he continues to adapt to the NBA’s pace, Edey’s contributions are becoming increasingly valuable for the Grizzlies. With his unique combination of size and skill, he has the potential to develop into a key player in the team’s rotation this season.

• Chicago Bulls: Matas Buzelis

          Buzelis, the Chicago Bulls rookie, has faced a challenging start to the 2024-25 NBA season. Currently averaging 1.3 points, 0.8 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game, he has struggled to find his offensive rhythm, reflected in his 20.0% shooting from the field. While these early numbers are not indicative of his potential, Buzelis is still adjusting to the pace and intensity of the NBA. His size and skill set suggest he has the capability to develop into a valuable player for the Bulls as he gains more experience and confidence on the court. Fans and coaches remain hopeful that with time, he will find his footing and contribute more significantly to the team’s success.

          The 2024-25 NBA season has introduced a wave of promising rookies, each facing their own unique challenges as they transition to the professional level. Players like Buzelis, despite slow starts, have the potential to develop into impactful contributors as they gain experience and adjust to the fast-paced nature of the league. As the season progresses, it will be exciting to watch how these young talents adapt, improve, and carve out their roles within their respective teams. With time and opportunity, they can turn early struggles into valuable learning experiences that will shape their futures in the NBA.