The 2024-25 NBA season is well underway, and while pre-draft expectations for this rookie class were tempered, a number of first-year players are already making their presence felt. From unexpected breakout performances to steady contributions on playoff contenders, these rookies are proving that stardom can emerge from any point in the draft.
Jared McCain: Philadelphia’s Silver Lining
Leading the charge is Philadelphia 76ers guard Jared McCain. The 16th pick out of Duke, McCain has seized the opportunity created by injuries to Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey. His stellar play, punctuated by a streak of seven 20-point games in November, has him at the forefront of the Rookie of the Year conversation.
McCain’s success comes as no surprise to those familiar with his work ethic. Duke coach Jon Scheyer praised him as “the hardest worker he’d been around” during his time with the Blue Devils. That dedication is paying dividends, with McCain leading all rookies in scoring while shooting an impressive 44.8% from the field and 36.4% from three.
For a Sixers team struggling to a 4-14 start, McCain’s emergence provides a glimmer of hope. The vision of a dynamic backcourt pairing him with the 24-year-old Maxey offers Philadelphia fans a reason for optimism amid a challenging season.
Dalton Knecht: Lighting Up Lakerland
Out west, another unexpected rookie is making waves. Dalton Knecht, the 17th pick out of Tennessee, has quickly become a key contributor for the Los Angeles Lakers. His 37-point explosion against the Utah Jazz on November 19th, complete with Michael Jordan-esque shrugs, announced his arrival on the big stage.
Knecht’s smooth transition to the NBA game has impressed many. After starting the season on the bench, the 23-year-old wing has earned a starting role and is making the most of it. His efficiency and ability to play off the Lakers’ ball-handlers have been crucial to the team’s success.
Knecht has looked a bit better defensively than we anticipated coming out of Tennessee. The fit in LA has been excellent, and he continues to provide strong value after falling to the 17th pick.
Western Conference Scout
Other Rookies Making Their Mark
While McCain and Knecht have grabbed the headlines, they’re far from the only rookies impressing in the early going:
- Stephon Castle, the 4th pick out of UConn, has thrived since moving into the starting lineup for the San Antonio Spurs. His defensive prowess and playmaking have helped the Spurs to an 8-5 record with him as a starter.
- Jaylen Wells, a second-round pick from Washington State, has been a revelation for the Memphis Grizzlies. His reliable shooting and tough defense have made him a stabilizing presence for a 14-7 Grizzlies squad.
- Zach Edey, selected 9th out of Purdue, is making his presence felt for Memphis despite limited minutes. The first rookie since Hakeem Olajuwon to post a 25/10/4 stat line on 90% shooting, Edey looks like a draft day steal so far.
As the 2024-25 season continues to unfold, the spotlight will undoubtedly find other rookies rising to the occasion. But for now, the likes of McCain, Knecht, Castle, Wells, and Edey are setting the standard, shining a light on the depth and potential of the 2024 draft class. The future of the NBA is in good hands.
Knecht’s smooth transition to the NBA game has impressed many. After starting the season on the bench, the 23-year-old wing has earned a starting role and is making the most of it. His efficiency and ability to play off the Lakers’ ball-handlers have been crucial to the team’s success.
Knecht has looked a bit better defensively than we anticipated coming out of Tennessee. The fit in LA has been excellent, and he continues to provide strong value after falling to the 17th pick.
Western Conference Scout
Other Rookies Making Their Mark
While McCain and Knecht have grabbed the headlines, they’re far from the only rookies impressing in the early going:
- Stephon Castle, the 4th pick out of UConn, has thrived since moving into the starting lineup for the San Antonio Spurs. His defensive prowess and playmaking have helped the Spurs to an 8-5 record with him as a starter.
- Jaylen Wells, a second-round pick from Washington State, has been a revelation for the Memphis Grizzlies. His reliable shooting and tough defense have made him a stabilizing presence for a 14-7 Grizzlies squad.
- Zach Edey, selected 9th out of Purdue, is making his presence felt for Memphis despite limited minutes. The first rookie since Hakeem Olajuwon to post a 25/10/4 stat line on 90% shooting, Edey looks like a draft day steal so far.
As the 2024-25 season continues to unfold, the spotlight will undoubtedly find other rookies rising to the occasion. But for now, the likes of McCain, Knecht, Castle, Wells, and Edey are setting the standard, shining a light on the depth and potential of the 2024 draft class. The future of the NBA is in good hands.
