Predictions for Every NBA Team's Top Rookie Prospect in 2024-25

As the 2024-25 NBA season nears, the latest rookie class is ready to make its official debut. June's draft may not have featured a headliner like Victor Wembanyama, but it has brought plenty of talented players into the league.

Some will make an immediate impact; others will need a year or two to develop.

B/R recently ranked each team's top non-rookie breakout prospect; the following list features each team's best first-year prospect—along with a prediction for what's ahead this season.

Atlanta Hawks: Zaccharie Risacher

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ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 8: Zaccharie Risacher #10 of the Atlanta Hawks and Quenton Jackson #29 of the Indiana Pacers embrace after the game during a NBA preseason game on October 8, 2024 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 1
Age: 19
Height/Weight: 6'8", 200 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Initially a top reserve, eventually starting

Prediction: Risacher got some love from the general manager survey (h/t NBA.com) as one of the best players in his class in five years, but he didn't get any votes for Rookie of the Year (ROY).

That's an oversight, as he'll get more of an opportunity for minutes and touches than the GM favorites. Put him down for ROY and the All-Rookie team as the top-scoring first-year player at 15 points per game, and awards tend to go to bucket-getters over screen-setting/rebounding big men and defensive role players.

Boston Celtics: Baylor Scheierman

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LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 16: Baylor Scheierman #55 of the Boston Celtics poses for a portrait during the 2024 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot on July 16, 2024 at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 30
Age: 24
Height/Weight: 6'6", 205 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Low-minute reserve

Prediction: Scheierman will be the only rookie on this list to win an NBA title in his debut season as the Celtics become the first repeat champions since the Golden State Warriors (2017 and 2018).

He may get more minutes with the Maine Celtics in the G League than the big league club, but he has real potential to crack the rotation in future years.

Brooklyn Nets: Jacky Cui

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OCEANSIDE, CA - OCTOBER 8: Jacky Cui #8 of the Brooklyn Nets handles the ball during the game against the LA Clippers during a NBA preseason game on October 8, 2024 at Frontwave Arena in Oceanside, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images)

2024 Draft: Undrafted
Age: 21
Height/Weight: 6'5", 190 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Long Island Nets

Prediction: Cui Yongxi, going by "Jacky Cui," is the best rookie prospect on the Nets because he's the only rookie on the roster. That's odd for a rebuilding team, but Brooklyn is still transitioning out of contracts from the Kevin Durant/Kyrie Irving/James Harden era.

Cui will spend most of his time in the G League on a two-way contract.

Charlotte Hornets: Tidjane Salaun

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CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - OCTOBER 08: Josh Christopher #8 of the Miami Heat battles Tidjane Salaun #31 of the Charlotte Hornets for a loose ball during the second half of the preseason game at Spectrum Center on October 08, 2024 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 6
Age: 19
Height/Weight: 6'8", 207 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Top reserve, potential starter

Prediction: Salaun will lead the rookie class in three-point percentage and three-pointers made. He'll also earn All-Rookie second-team honors.

Chicago Bulls: Matas Buzelis

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CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 08: Matas Buzelis #14 talks with Talen Horton-Tucker #22 of the Chicago Bulls during the second half of a preseason game against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on October 08, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Bulls defeated the Cavaliers 116-112. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 11
Age: 20
Height/Weight: 6'10", 209 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Rotation

Prediction: Buzelis will start slowly, but as the Bulls focus on development (and protecting their 2025 first-round pick that will go to the San Antonio Spurs if it's outside of the top 10), the young forward will put up big numbers over the final few months of the regular season.

Cleveland Cavaliers: Jaylon Tyson

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CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 08: Jaylon Tyson #24 of the Cleveland Cavaliers celebrates during the second half of a preseason game against the Chicago Bulls at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on October 08, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Bulls defeated the Cavaliers 116-112. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 20
Age: 21
Height/Weight: 6'6", 215 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Initially low-minute end of the rotation

Prediction: Tyson is a Cavaliers injury (or trade) away from taking on a more significant role. He's a versatile wing who can rebound and create offense as a downhill attacker or secondary playmaker.

He won't get as much of an opportunity initially. Still, he should grow into a role—especially as players are inevitably out with injury or if Cleveland makes a trade (perhaps Caris LeVert, who is in the final year of his contract and plays the same position as Tyson).

Dallas Mavericks: Melvin Ajinça

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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JULY 16: Melvin Ajinça #17 of the Dallas Mavericks poses for a portrait during the 2024 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot at UNLV on July 16, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 51
Age: 20
Height/Weight: 6'8", 210 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: None (playing overseas for ASVEL Basket)

Prediction: After their run to the NBA Finals, the Dallas Mavericks are focused on winning now. Unlike last season, they don't have a high-level rookie such as Dereck Lively II in the lottery, who was able to contribute immediately.

The team acquired Ajinça through trade from the New York Knicks, but he won't come over to play in Dallas this season.

Denver Nuggets: DaRon Holmes II

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DENVER, CO - SEPTEMBER 26: DaRon Holmes II #14 of the Denver Nuggets poses for a portrait during 2024-25 NBA Media Day on September 26, 2023 at the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Bart Young/NBAE via Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 22
Age: 22
Height/Weight: 6'10", 225 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: None, injured (Achilles)

Prediction: Holmes was a solid pick for the Nuggets outside the lottery. Unfortunately, he suffered a significant injury in summer league and will miss the season.

Denver has a few rookies on two-way contracts (Trey Alexander, PJ Hall and Spencer Jones), but even injured, Holmes remains the team's top prospect. Fortunately, players are returning from Achilles tendon injuries more successfully than ever.

Detroit Pistons: Ron Holland II

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PHOENIX, AZ - OCTOBER 11: Ron Holland II #00 of the Detroit Pistons looks on during the game on October 11, 2024 at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Kate Frese/NBAE via Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 1
Age: 19
Height/Weight: 6'8", 206 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Top of the rotation

Prediction: Coming off the bench for the Pistons, Holland will lead his class in poster dunks.

Detroit is slowly assembling a group of players that should climb from the bottom of the standings.

While Holland may not start as a rookie, he'll use his athleticism to embarrass opposing defenders at the rim.

Golden State Warriors: Quinten Post

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SAN FRANCISCO, CA - SEPTEMBER 30: Quinten Post #21 of the Golden State Warriors poses for a portrait during NBA Media Day at Chase Center on September 30, 2024 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Mike Rasay/NBAE via Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 52
Age: 14
Height/Weight: 7'0", 238 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Santa Cruz Warriors

Prediction: The Warriors still view their franchise as a contender, and with Stephen Curry, they may not be wrong.

Post, who is on a two-way contract, may not get much opportunity to play—put him down for lowest total minutes among his second-round draft class.

Houston Rockets: Reed Sheppard

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SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - OCTOBER 07: Reed Sheppard #15 of the Houston Rockets in action during the second half of a preseason game against the Utah Jazz at Delta Center on October, 7 2024 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 3
Age: 20
Height/Weight: 6'2", 185 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Key reserve

Prediction: Sheppard has many fans around the league (he is No. 1 on the GM survey for Rookie of the Year and best of his class in five years). He is talented and will eventually live up to the hype, but he may not get enough touches on this Rockets squad to show what he can do.

Houston has roster decisions to make ahead of the deadline and into next offseason, but Sheppard may end up on the NBA All-Rookie second team because the Rockets have too many mouths to feed.

Indiana Pacers: Johnny Furphy

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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JULY 17: Johnny Furphy #12 of the Indiana Pacers poses for a portrait during the 2024 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot at UNLV on July 17, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 35
Age: 19
Height/Weight: 6'9", 200 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: End of rotation/G League

Prediction: Furphy didn't get a chance to show what he can do in preseason due to an ankle injury. The Australian will get most of his minutes in the G League.

While he won't get much of an opportunity to play throughout the year, coach Rick Carlisle and his staff will turn him into a viable, productive spot rotation player by the time the postseason arrives.

Los Angeles Clippers: Cam Christie

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INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 30: Cam Christie poses for a photo at the Los Angeles Clippers Media Day at Intuit Dome on September 30, 2024 in Inglewood, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 46
Age: 19
Height/Weight: 6'6", 190 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: End of rotation

Prediction: Christie may struggle to earn minutes as a rookie on the Clippers, who are deep at the wing position (provided Kawhi Leonard can stay on the court consistently).

Put Christie down as playing fewer minutes as a rookie than his brother, Max, with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2022-23 (512 total).

Los Angeles Lakers: Dalton Knecht

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LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 6: Dalton Knecht #4 of the Los Angeles Lakers warms up against the Phoenix Suns on October 6, 2024 at Acrisure Arena in Palm Springs, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 17
Age: 23
Height/Weight: 6'6", 215 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Rotation

Prediction: Knecht will make the NBA's All-Rookie team and play a regular role in the Lakers' rotation.

While he won't shoot well initially, he'll become a reliable scoring threat for LeBron James and coach JJ Redick over time.

Memphis Grizzlies: Zach Edey

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MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - OCTOBER 10: Zach Edey #14 and Head Coach Taylor Jenkins of the Memphis Grizzlies during the second half against the Charlotte Hornets at FedExForum on October 10, 2024 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 9
Age: 22
Height/Weight: 7'4", 305lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Starter

Prediction: Edey fits exactly what the Grizzlies need at center. He'll earn Rookie of the Year votes but come in second—finishing on the NBA's All-Rookie team.

Miami Heat: Kel'el Ware

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MIAMI, FL - OCTOBER 13: Kel'el Ware #7 of the Miami Heat looks on during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans during a preseason game on October 13, 2024 at Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Eric Espada/NBAE via Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 15
Age: 20
Height/Weight: 7'0", 230lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Rotation

Prediction: Ware will start slowly as coach Erik Spoelstra's third or even fourth big, but over time, he'll earn minutes ahead of Thomas Bryant and Kevin Love.

Ware will finish second in total blocks behind Edey in his class, and Spoelstra will give him looks in a dual-big lineup with Bam Adebayo.

Milwaukee Bucks: AJ Johnson

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MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - SEPTEMBER 30: AJ Johnson #77 of the Milwaukee Bucks poses for a portrait during media day at the Fiserv Forum on September 30, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 23
Age: 19
Height/Weight: 6'5", 1690 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Rotation

Prediction: Under normal circumstances, coach Doc Rivers doesn't rely heavily on raw, developing rookies, but the Bucks are struggling to get and stay healthy, notably with Khris Middleton (ankle). That will lead to Johnson getting more minutes than the front office may have initially planned.

He will be wildly inconsistent this season, but the extra time should help him develop.

Minnesota Timberwolves: Rob Dillingham

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NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 13: Rob Dillingham #4 of the Minnesota Timberwolves dribbles the ball during the game on October 13, 2024 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by David L. Nemec/NBAE via Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 8
Age: 19
Height/Weight: 6'3", 175 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Rotation

Prediction: Dillingham will be a boom-or-bust player for the Timberwolves off the bench. He'll blow up in some games and be a critical factor in wins; in others, he'll struggle with his shot and turnovers.

In the end, Dillingham will do enough to earn All-Rookie second-team honors.

New Orleans Pelicans: Yves Missi

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - SEPTEMBER 30: Yves Missi #21 of the New Orleans Pelicans poses for a photo during media day at Smoothie King Center on September 30, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gus Stark/Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 21
Age: 20
Height/Weight: 6'11", 235 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Rotation, potential starter late in season

Prediction: Missi will gradually develop into this season's Dereck Lively II.

Once he acclimates to the NBA, he fits what the Pelicans need at center. That may be as a spot-starter, but most of his minutes will come as a reserve.

New York Knicks: Tyler Kolek

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NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 9: Cameron Payne #1 and Tyler Kolek #13 of the New York Knicks high five during the game against the Washington Wizards during the 2024 NBA Preseason on October 9, 2024 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 34
Age: 23
Height/Weight: 6'3", 195 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Rotation

Prediction: Kolek will lead his class in assists per game, coming off the bench for the Knicks.

Oklahoma City Thunder: Dillon Jones

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OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - SEPTEMBER 30: Dillon Jones #3 of the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center on September 30, 2024 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Joshua Gateley/Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 26
Age: 22
Height/Weight: 6'5", 235 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Rotation

Prediction: Jones will play vital minutes and make a significant contribution to a win at some point in the Thunder's postseason run (which may be a long one).

His time on the court may be spotty throughout the regular season, but his versatility and effort will generate opportunities.

Orlando Magic: Tristan da Silva

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - OCTOBER 7: Tristan da Silva #23 of the Orlando Magic drives in against Jalen Crutcher #11 of the New Orleans Pelicans during the second half of a preseason game at the Smoothie King Center on October 7, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Derick E. Hingle/Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 18
Age: 23
Height/Weight: 6'8", 217 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Rotation

Prediction: Da Silva will need to earn his place in the rotation with the talent and depth the Magic already have in place. The team doesn't have the perfect backup to Paolo Banchero, but Franz Wagner may slide up to in rotation.

Over time, though, Da Silva will get those minutes as an older, versatile rookie who can shoot the ball. By the postseason, he'll be a staple in a significant role.

Philadelphia 76ers: Jared McCain

Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images

PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 7: Jared McCain #20 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on during the game against the New Zealand Breakers during a NBA Preseason Game on October 7, 2024 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 16
Age: 20
Height/Weight: 6'3", 205 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Rotation

Prediction: McCain is recovering from a scary injury that bruised his lung.

Hoping he can get back to the court quickly, he will earn regular rotation minutes for the Sixers, providing floor space as a willing shooter/scorer—enough to earn All-Rookie second-team honors.

Phoenix Suns: Ryan Dunn

Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images

PHOENIX, AZ - SEPTEMBER 30: Ryan Dunn #0 of the Phoenix Suns poses for a portrait during NBA Media Day on September 30, 2024 at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 28
Age: 21
Height/Weight: 6'8", 216 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Borderline starter

Prediction: Teams with high-powered scorers like the Suns need defensive-minded role players who can impact the game without the ball.

Dunn was a tremendous selection for this team, and he'll not only crack the rotation but also may get spot starts (depending on health).

He can also score and will do enough for Phoenix to outperform his draft position and earn All-Rookie honors.

Portland Trail Blazers: Donovan Clingan

Alika Jenner/Getty Images

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - OCTOBER 11: Donovan Clingan #23 of the Portland Trail Blazers looks on during the Rain City Showcase game against the Los Angeles Clippers at Climate Pledge Arena on October 11, 2024 in Seattle, Washington. The Los Angeles Clippers won 101-99. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 7
Age: 20
Height/Weight: 7'2", 280 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Rotation

Prediction: Despite coming off the bench, Clingan will lead his class in rebounds per game (edging out, barely, Zach Edey with the Memphis Grizzlies).

Sacramento Kings: Devin Carter

John Todd/Getty Images

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 30: Devin Carter during a media day photo shoot at Sacramento Kings Practice Facility on September 30, 2024 in Sacramento, California. (NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.) (Photo by John Todd/Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 13
Age: 22
Height/Weight: 6'2", 195 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: End of rotation, when healthy

Prediction: The Kings were excited to draft Carter, but a shoulder injury should keep him sidelined through the rest of 2024. He'll eventually make his way onto the court, but he'll need time to get in shape and catch up.

It's not a redshirt year for Carter, but it's not the ideal rookie campaign either.

San Antonio Spurs: Stephon Castle

Photos by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images

SAN ANTONIO, TX - OCTOBER 12: Stephon Castle #5 of the San Antonio Spurs dribbles the ball during the game against the Utah Jazz during a NBA pre season game on October 12, 2024 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photos by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 4
Age: 19
Height/Weight: 6'6", 215 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Key reserve

Prediction: Castle may initially come off the bench for Chris Paul, but injuries may lead to a starting role.

Castle will lead his class in steals, prove to be one of the best defenders and earn All-Rookie honors. He'll also come in third for Rookie of the Year.

Toronto Raptors: Ja'Kobe Walter

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LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 19: Ja'Kobe Walter #14 of the Toronto Raptors handles the ball during the game against the Miami Heat on July 19, 2024 at the COX Pavilion in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 19
Age: 20
Height/Weight: 6'5", 180 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: End of rotation

Prediction: Walter missed the preseason with a shoulder injury. The late start and existing depth will have him playing a bit role on the Raptors this season.

Utah Jazz: Cody Williams

Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images

DALLAS, TX - OCTOBER 10: Keyonte George #3 and Cody Williams #5 of the Utah Jazz looks on during the game against the Dallas Mavericks on October 10, 2024 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 10
Age: 19
Height/Weight: 6'7", 190 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Rotation

Prediction: The Jazz are heading into a development year, and Williams needs to develop. He'll get that chance, leading his class in minutes per game.

Washington Wizards: Alexandre Sarr

Patrick Smith/Getty Images

WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 11: Alex Sarr #20 of the Washington Wizards looks on against the Toronto Raptors during the first half of a preseason game at Capital One Arena on October 11, 2024 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

2024 Draft: No. 2
Age: 19
Height/Weight: 7'0, 205 lbs
2024-25 Projected Role: Starter

Prediction: Sarr was one of the top selections of the 2024 draft, but the class has fewer ready-to-dominate players than a typical year.

He will get the minutes and opportunity in Washington. His team won't win many games, but he'll earn second All-Rookie second-team honors for what he brings defensively, along with improved outside shooting.

All-Rookie Honors

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BROOKLYN, NY - JUNE 26: Reed Sheppard, Rob Dillingham, Alex Sarr, Stephon Castle, Donovan Clingan, Jared McCain, Ron Holland, Tidjane Salaun and Kyle Filipowski pose for the camera during the 2024 NBA Draft - Round One on June 26, 2024 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Catalina Fragoso/NBAE via Getty Images)

Putting it all together, the award winners will be:

Rookie of the Year: Zaccharie Risacher (Zach Edey placing second, Stephon Castle third)

All-Rookie Team: Dalton Knecht, Ryan Dunn, Risacher, Edey, Castle

All-Rookie Second Team: Alexandre Sarr, Reed Sheppard, Tidjane Salaun, Jared McCain, Rob Dillingham

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