NBA Preview: Players Not Named John Wall That Could Win Rookie Of The Year
Some think it's a foregone conclusion that electric Wizards' PG John Wall will in the award.
It's not.
The talented youngster will face some serious competition from around the league, and you can bet that Wall will go through his share of struggles during the regular season.
While he may be the early favorite to take home the crown, here are five guys that could give him a run for his money throughout the entire year.
Greg Monroe, PF Detroit Pistons
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Despite taking a lot of heat for his rather slender frame, Monroe should make his impact felt instantly in the regular season.
With the news that starting forward Jonas Jerebko will miss most (if not all) of the season with a torn Achilles tendon, Monroe really has a chance to make an impression on the rest of the league.
Drafted 7th overall out of Georgetown, Monroe is an unbelievable passer for someone of his size. While he certainly won't be able to body up some of the bigger guys he's bound to go against, his versatile game should compliment the Pistons' style of play quite nicely and should result in positive results for Detroit.
Wes Johnson, SF Minnesota Timberwolves
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This Syracuse standout is certainly turning heads thus far in the preseason.
After battling a hamstring problem that he's just now about fully recovered from, Johnson has really displayed his impressive athleticism and uncanny scoring ability in the early going.
Selected 4th overall by the Timberwolves, Johnson is expected to play an integral role for the team in his first season. One of the most polished products of this year's draft class, Johnson's age (23) is a big reason for his high maturity level.
The sky is the limit for Johnson so long as he stays healthy; he is a rare talent capable of contributing across the board.
DeMarcus Cousins, C Sacramento Kings
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Cousins could have gone first overall--he is that good.
With prolific numbers at Kentucky and potential that is absolutely off the charts, Cousins has the makings of a dominant center in the NBA for the next ten years.
With the capability of shooting it from anywhere on the floor and unbelievable rebounding abilities, Cousins is a double-double threat every night he's on the hardwood.
Although he will have games where he struggles with foul trouble, Cousins is going to start from the get-go (thanks to a Samuel Dalembert injury) and should make the most of it from day one.
Blake Griffin, PF Los Angeles Clippers
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The most overlooked rookie this season has the potential to make the biggest impact.
After missing his entire true rookie season, Griffin enters this season with more hype surrounding him than he had at any point last season.
Absolutely torching his opponents this preseason, BG has been doing it all for the Clippers in a very convincing fashion. Proving that his knee troubles are behind him, Griffin has looked as explosive as ever and is logging serious minutes in the early going.
As long as the big man stays healthy, Griffin could run away with the award by the trade deadline.
