Blake Griffin, Derrick Rose and the 50 Most Exciting Rookies in NBA History

We have all seen the jaw-dropping dunks and mind-boggling passes that Blake Griffin and Derrick Rose have displayed in their respected rookie seasons.

Griffin has owned the SportsCenter broadcast more so than Terrell Owens did during his feud with Philadelphia or Brett Favre during his 34th retirement (okay so maybe it was one two or three, but you get the idea).

Rose had a sensational rookie season two years ago, and now, he is the leading MVP candidate in just his third season in the NBA. The man covers 94 feet from one end to the other like TMZ covers Britney and Kimmy K—it's non-stop.

But while Griffin and Rose have brought a fresh excitement to the game, where do they rank amongst the most exciting rookies in NBA history?

Let's dive right into this and break down the 50 most exciting rookies in NBA history.

Let the games begin.

50. Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors

Christian Petersen/Getty Images

PHOENIX - OCTOBER 19: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors during the preseason NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at US Airways Center on October 19, 2010 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downlo

Stephen Curry was a bit of a wild card coming into his rookie year, but the undersized shooting guard out of Davidson had one of the most memorable rookie seasons in recent history.

Curry averaged over 17 points per game, but most impressive was his three-point shooting. Curry lit up opposing teams with his outside shot in his rookie season. He posted a 44 percent clip from downtown and made more than two three-pointers per game.

Curry finished second in Rookie of the Year voting last season, but his shooting touch was truly brilliant to watch. The best thing about it, is that it's only going to get better with time.

49. Stephon Marbury, Minnesota Timberwolves

Doug Pensinger/Getty Images

6 Dec 1997: Guard Stephon Marbury of the Minnesota Timberwolves drives towards forward Juwan Howard of the Washington Wizards during a game at the MCI Center in Washington D.C. The Wizards won the game 114-103. Mandatory Credit: Doug Pensinger /Allspor

This flashy rookie came into the league in 1996 and instantly became one of the league's most exciting point guards.

"Starbury," as many refer to him as, averaged just under 16 points by per game and was a human highlight film with his fancy dribbling and dazzling passes.

Marbury developed into one of the NBA's top point guards and developed arguably the best one-two punch in the late 90's with Minnesota teammate Kevin Garnett.

Marbury might not have kept his image as high as he would have liked after a few awful years in New York and a bizarre youtube video of him crying, amongst other things. Nonetheless, Marbury was hands-down one of the most exciting rookies in the game when he came in the league.

48. Bob Pettit, Milwaukee Hawks

We're taking a long journey down memory road, all the way back to 1954 for this one.

When Bob Pettit came out of college, not many thought he would be a successful NBA player. Standing at 6'9" and weighing under 200 pounds, Pettit proved everyone wrong and had some exciting moments to go along with it.

Pettit was one of those guys who dove all over the court, fighting for rebounds and lose balls, all in an effort to win the game. He also became a prolific scorer, and after 11 years with the Milwaukee and St. Louis Hawks, he retired having become the first player in the league to top 20,000 points.

47. Dave Bing, Detroit Pistons

A high-scoring guard out of Syracuse, Dave Bing entered the NBA in 1966 as the second overall pick to the Detroit Pistons.

In his rookie season, all Bing did was average 20 points per game and dish out over four assists a game. In an era that included other flashy guards such as Jerry West and Oscar Robertson, Bing was one of the best amongst them all.

He was so good and so well-liked in his rookie season, that Bing was honored as the 1966-67 rookie of the year.

46. Tyreke Evans, Sacramento Kings

The most recent winner of the NBA Rookie of the Year award, Tyreke Evans might not have been the No. 1 most exciting rookie ever, but he sure did provide some impressive highlights during his first year in the NBA.

Evans was a highly touted rookie out of Memphis, and in his first year as a pro, the multi-talented guard averaged a rookie-best 20.1 points per game, as well as a team-high 5.8 assists and 5.3 rebounds per game. He joined Oscar Robertson, LeBron James and Michael Jordan as the only players in NBA history to average 20 points, five rebounds and five assists in their rookie year.

Evans was on this list because of how large of a skill range he has. Take a look at this move he pulls on NBA defensive player of the year, Dwight Howard.

45. Brandon Jennings, Milwaukee Bucks

Brandon Jennings might have finished No. 3 in the Rookie of the Year voting behind two guys that have already made this list, but Jennings wins the prize for being the most exciting out of all of them.

With a deadly crossover, an abundance of swagger and a memorable 55-point game in his rookie season, Jennings was a walking highlight film last year.

Jennings was a rare case in that he skipped his freshman year of college to play overseas. He had a lot swagger coming out of high school, but Jennings really hit the scene hard in his rookie season. Even though he missed the shot, take a look at this crossover that Jennings puts on Stephen Curry in this youtube video.

44. Brandon Roy, Portland Trailblazers

Chris Graythen/Getty Images

NEW ORLEANS - FEBRUARY 17: Brandon Roy #7 of the Western Conference goes to the basket for a slam dunk in the first half of the 57th NBA All-Star Game, part of 2008 NBA All-Star Weekend at the New Orleans Arena on February 17, 2008 in New Orleans, Louisi

Not many rookies can say that they won the Rookie of the Year award in such a landslide like Brandon Roy did in the 2006-07 NBA season.

Roy received 127 out of 128 possible first place votes in his rookie season. While Roy did put up 17 points per game in his first year, he impressed many with how deadly his shot was and how exciting this kid was to watch as a young gun in the league.

Roy has since developed into one of the premier scorers of the league, and although he was good in college while playing at Washington, he's even more exciting to watch in the NBA.

43. Willis Reed, New York Knicks

Willis Reed was one of the premier big men in the NBA in the 1960's and 70's, and it all started with the brilliant rookie season he had for the New York Knicks.

Reed put together a memorable first year in the NBA, averaging 20 points per game and close to 15 rebounds. He played the game like a man on a mission, throwing down powerful dunks and leaping to grab big-time rebounds.

Reed might not have put on a Superman cape and flown through the air like Dwight Howard did, but he was one of the premier athletic big men in the game during his rookie season and beyond.

42. Alonzo Mourning, Charlotte Hornets

Alonzo Mourning was the second pick in the 1992 NBA Draft and he put together one of the most memorable rookie seasons in the history of the league.

Mourning averaged 21 points and over 10 rebounds per game in his rookie season. If it wasn't for Shaquille O'Neal, he would have been a lock for the Rookie of the Year award that season.

Mourning was well known across the league for his ability to posterize other NBA big men with his authoritative array of dunks. Just check out this dunk Mourning threw down against Shaq in his rookie season. Think he was a little upset about not winning ROY?

41. Hakeem Olajuwon, Houston Rockets

Brian Bahr/Getty Images

27 May 1997: Center Hakeem Olajuwon of the Houston Rockets tries to block center Greg Ostertag of the Utah Jazz during a playoff game at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Jazz won the game 96-91. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bahr /Allsport

Hakeem "the dream" Olajuwon was a walking highlight film with his thunderous dunks and eye-popping blocks during his rookie year.

In his first NBA season, Olajuwon averaged 20.6 points, 11.9 rebounds and 2.7 blocks per game for the Houston Rockets. Olajuwon joined Mourning, as two of the only NBA rookies in the games history to average a double-double in their initial seasons in the Pros.

Olajuwon would have won the Rookie of the Year award if it wasn't for a guy by the name of Michael Jordan.

40. Ralph Sampson, Houston Rockets

From one Houston Rocket's big man, to another, Ralph Sampson was one of the greatest players in the history of college basketball and carried that skill set right into the NBA.

Sampson posted perhaps his best NBA season during his rookie campaign. The 7'4" center averaged 21 points and over 11 rebounds per game in his first year as a pro. He was remembered for his dunking ability and his dominance around the rim.

Sampson was certainly an exciting rookie prospect, but his career took a turn for the worst in his fourth year in the NBA, and he never averaged more than 16 points again. Nonetheless, he was a true treat to watch as a young rookie in the league.

39. Derrick Coleman, New Jersey Nets

Derrick Coleman was the first pick of the 1990 NBA Draft out of Syracuse, and when the Nets made that selection, they obviously knew what they were doing.

Coleman went on to average over 18 points and 10 rebounds in his first year as a pro, joining guys like Alonzo Mourning and Hakeem Olajuwon as double-double guys in their rookie years.

Coleman was as exciting on the court as he was off the court. He was a frequent visitor with the law off the court, but while playing, Coleman was one of those guys that seemed to thrown down at least one thunderous dunk every time he took the court.

Just check out this dunk by Coleman over Shaq in the Diesel's rookie season. How is that for exciting?

38. Tim Ducan, San Antonio Spurs

If we were creating a list of the greatest rookies of all time, then Tim Duncan would most likely crack the top-10 list.

But, we are focusing in here on the most exciting rookies, which is why the Big Fundamental comes in in the upper 30's. Nonetheless, when you average 21 points and 12 rebounds per game in your rookie season, in an era where there were a lot of talented big men playing in the NBA, you have to make this list.

In addition to his outstanding rookie numbers, believe it or not, Timmy had some ups back in the late 90's. Just check out this slam dunk over Alonzo Mourning in the 2000 NBA All Star Game. You might even want to watch it twice just in case you can't believe your eyes.

37. Mitch Richmond, Golden State Warriors

Tim DeFrisco/Getty Images

1989: Mitch Richmond #23 of the Golden State Warriors looks at the scoreboard during an NBA game in the 1989-90 season. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the term

There weren't many players in the 1990's era that could stroke the three-ball like Mitch Richmond could back in the day.

The slick shooting guard from Kansas State averaged 22 points per game in his rookie season, and at least that for the next 10 seasons in a row. He was one of the best scorers in the NBA during that span and was an easy winner of the 1998-89 Rookie of the Year award.

If you like watching guys who could shoot the lights out, then it really didn't get much better than Mitch Richmond.

36. Chris Webber, Golden State Warriors

Chris Webber had one of the most bizarre draft days, being selected first overall by the Orlando Magic, and then immediately traded to the Warriors. Add in the fact that he was traded one year later to the Washington Bullets, and you figure at this pace, he was gonna hit every team in the NBA before settling down.

But despite only being in Golden State for less than a year, C-Web averaged over 17 points and nine rebounds per game in his rookie campaign, but it was the pure excitement he brought to the game that made his rookie season a memorable one.

Just check out this dunk by Webber in his rookie season, as he leaps over Mark Jackson for the slam.

35. Walt Bellamy, Chicago Packers

When it comes to putting up big numbers as a rookie, there really weren't many that topped Bellamy. In fact, if this was a list about the best rookie seasons in NBA history, Bellamy is a guy who can make a case for being No. 1.

Bellamy averaged 31.6 points and 19 rebounds per game as a rookie with the Chicago Packers (wow, that just sounds weird hearing that city and that team name together).

Bellamy currently ranks second all-time in scoring average for a rookie behind only Wilt Chamberlain. Keep in mind that this is a list about the most exciting rookies ever, and in 1961, well let's just say that people weren't dunking over cars back then.

34. Damon Stoudamire, Toronto Raptors

Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

22 Dec 1995: Point guard Damon Stoudamire of the Toronto Raptors relaxes for a moment during a break in the action of the Raptors 113-104 loss to the Bulls at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Daniel/ALLSPORT

There weren't many more rookie point guards that were as exciting to watch as Damon Stoudamire.

"Mighty Mouse," as they called him in the mid-late 90's, averaged 19 points and just under 10 assists per game in his rookie season out of Arizona. He went on to win the 1995-96 Rookie of the Year award as he was an instant hit once he brought his exciting style of play to the NBA.

This small, left handed point guard had one of the quickest crossovers the NBA had ever seen and truly was a joy to watch before he faded into complete irrelevancy after about four years in the NBA.

33. Jason Williams, Sacramento Kings

If you did not like watching Jason Williams play during his rookie season in the NBA, then you do not appreciate what exciting basketball is all about. End of story there.

When "White Chocolate," was selected seventh overall by the Sacramento Kings in the 1998 draft, he brought a swagger and excitement to the game that it had been lacking for some time. Whether it be his deadly crossover dribbles, or his dazzling behind the back passes, J-Will truly was a joy to watch out on the basketball court.

Check out this pass that Williams made during the 2000 Rookie All Star Game. It was one of the most memorable passes in NBA history.

32. Jason Kidd, Dallas Mavericks

Jason Kidd was the second overall pick in the 1994 draft and now, in his 17th NBA season, Kidd is still playing at a high level.

To understand how good Kidd was as a rookie, you almost had to see him play out on the court. His 12 points per game average was nothing to write home about, but his eight assists per game and flashy play out on the court was a thing of beauty.

Kidd was the co-winner of the 1994 NBA Rookie of the Year award along with Grant Hill. During his rookie season and still well into his career, Jason Kidd was always remembered as being a walking triple-double that could go off for a huge game on any given night.

31. Larry Johnson, Charlotte Hornets

A lot of people like to compare Blake Griffin to a modern day Shawn Kemp, but it's really not too far off to compare him to an early 90's version of Larry Johnson.

Johnson was one of those players that played like he was mad at the rim and he was going after a thunderous dunk whenever he got his hands on the ball.

In his rookie season, Johnson averaged over 19 points and 11 rebounds per game for the Charlotte Hornets. He formed arguably the most exciting one-two combination in all of basketball when he teamed up with Alonzo Mourning in Charlotte.

Not to mention, Johnson rocked what very well could be the coolest nickname in all of basketball as players and fans all knew him as "Grandmama."

Check out this dunk by Johnson over the great shot blocker, Dikembe Mutombo.

30. Rick Barry, San Francisco Warriors

When you talk about the most pure scorers in NBA history, it would be impossible not to mention the great Rick Barry.

In fact, the Hall of Fame forward is the only player ever to lead the NCAA, NBA, and ABA all in scoring.

Barry averaged an eye-popping 25.7 points and 10.6 rebounds per game in his first NBA season with the San Francisco Warriors on his way to being named the 1966 NBA Rookie of the Year. It didn't stop there for Barry as he went on to average more than 20 points per game in 12 straight seasons.

Yes, it is a little bit old school, but back in the day, this was the best of the best. Most importantly, let's not forget that underhand free throw shot.

29. Anfernee "Penny" Hardaway, Orlando Magic

Penny Hardaway was drafted No. 3 overall in the 1993 NBA Draft and was traded right away for Chris Webber. Talk about two players that created some excitement throughout their NBA careers.

Penny was one of the most likable players during his career, especially in the mid 90's, when he teamed with Shaq to form one of the best one-two punches in NBA history. The fact that Penny was 6'7" made him even more enjoyable to watch because he had the dunking power of a forward, but the quickness and dribbling skills of a point guard, which was his natural position.

Hardaway averaged 16 points and seven assists in his rookie season, while being voted second in the Rookie of the Year voting behind Chris Webber.

Check out the way Penny posterizes Karl Malone in this video and you will get the idea of why he was one of the most exciting rookies to watch in the history of the game.

28. Kevin Durant, Seattle Supersonics

Chris Graythen/Getty Images

NEW ORLEANS - JANUARY 16: Kevin Durant #35 of the Seattle SuperSonics makes a shot over Bobby Jackson #8 the New Orleans Hornets on January 16, 2008 at the New Orleans Arena in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Hornets defeated the Sonics 123-92. NOTE TO U

There are few players in the NBA today that can score like Kevin Durant can. And when this kid came out of Texas after playing just one year of college basketball, and went on to average 21 points per game in his rookie season, everyone knew that he would be a special player.

Over the past four years, Durant has mesmerized fans with his pure scoring ability. He has the quickness of a point guard, the shot of a shooting guard, the slashing ability of a forward and the height of a center.

Durant took home the Rookie of the Year award in 2008 and has improved as a player every year since. He led the league in scoring last year, averaging over 30 points per game, and he is on track to do it again this season.

When you got a guy who could compete and do well in both the dunk and 3-point shooting contest, that defines "exciting" if you ask me.

27. John Wall, Washington Wizards

Even though John Wall is still in the midst of his rookie season, it is fair to say that he is able to do some things with the basketball in his hands that we just haven't seen in the NBA.

Wall is arguably the quickest player in the NBA today and he has dazzled fans with his electrifying moves as well as dunks.

John Wall isn't a guy that's ever going to lead the league in scoring, but he might lead the league in triple doubles and certainly highlight reel plays. Take a look at this video and you will see why he comes in at No. 27 on this list.

26. Wes Unseld, Baltimore Bullets

How about this for a fun fact: Wes Unseld is only the second player in NBA history to be named league MVP and Rookie of the Year in the same season.

Unseld was drafted in 1968 to the Baltimore Bullets, where he averaged 13.8 points and 18.2 rebounds per game. He was one of the most exciting players to watch back in that era because of his ability to dominate and take over a game down low in the paint.

The year before Unseld was drafted, the Bullets posted a 36-46 record. In his rookie season, the team improved to 57-25, which marked the best record in the NBA that year.

25. Chris Paul, New Orleans Hornets

Chris Paul might have been the 4th-overall pick in the 2005 NBA Draft, but he was easily the first pick when it came to Rookie of the Year voting that year.

Paul won the award in a landslide after posting 16 points and eight assists per game in his rookie season. Paul instantly caught the attention of the NBA with his exciting style of play, and since then, has developed into one of the top point guards in the NBA today.

When you talk about Chris Paul, two words come to mind "quick" and "electrifying." And that is why he has to be one of the most exciting rookies in NBA history.

Take a look here at this crossover he pulls on Tony Parker. All you can do is stare and simply say "wow."

24. Carmelo Anthony, Denver Nuggets

When you average 20+ points in your rookie season and appear on SportsCenter's top-10 list on a regular basis, then you are certainly going to have a spot on this list. That is the case with Carmelo Anthony who comes in here at No. 24.

Anthony would have been the Rookie of the Year in almost any other season, but he came in the same draft class at LeBron James, who will be sure to make an appearance later on in this list.

Anthony is one of the best slashing forwards in the game today, and he began to show that high ceiling of talent from the second he put on a Denver Nuggets jersey.

Take a look at this dunk that Anthony throws down early on in his career over three Celtics. If this isn't exciting, who knows what is?

23. Steve Francis, Houston Rockets

There just weren't many players that could light up a crowd like Houston Rockets guard Steve Francis could during his 1999 rookie season.

Stevie "Franchise" was a walking highlight film when he took the floor in Houston. He averaged 18 points and just under seven assists per game in his rookie season, as he earned Co-Rookie of the Year honors along with Elton Brand.

What made Francis so enjoyable to watch was that he played the point guard position, but he slashed and dunked like a wing forward. He truly was a highlight film on his own, which is what this video here shows. When Steve Francis drove to the rim, it was always advised to get out of the way and just watch him do this thing.

22. Jason Richardson, Golden State Warriors

Jason Richardson was the fifth pick in the 2001 NBA Draft, but he was hands-down the No. 1 most athletic player to come out of that draft.

When Jason Richardson entered the NBA ten years ago, there really weren't many players that had the pure athleticism like he did. He was the best dunker in the game as he was crowned the Slam Dunk Champion in back-to-back years in 2002 and 2003.

When you talk about "exciting rookies," it would be a darn shame not to mention Jason Richardson on that list. Just take a look at this dunk and you will see exactly what I am talking about.

21. Elvin Hayes, San Diego Rockets

When you average 28.4 points and 17.1 rebounds per game in your rookie season, you have to be considered one of the most exciting rookies in NBA history.

Hayes did not win the rookie of the year award, but that's because he was in the same draft class as Wes Unseld. What made Hayes stand out slightly above Unseld was his pure ability to score the basketball.

Hayes didn't break any backboards in his time, but he was quite the dunker, and he really did bring new meaning to the word "exciting" in the late 1960's.

20. Amar'e Stoudemire, Phoenix Suns

Amare Stoudemire was a highly touted kid coming out of high school when he was selected ninth overall in the 2002 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns.

Within his first year playing in the NBA, Stoudemire was already transforming into a constant highlight type player. His thunderous dunks and monstrous blocked shots were a constant on SportsCenter's Top-10 plays during his rookie season.

Amar'e averaged 14 points and nine rebounds per game in his rookie season, but it was the pure excitement he brought to the game that made him a special player. Take a look here at this dunk that Stoudemire has over Kevin Garnett.

19. Julis Erving, Philadelphia 76ers

Doctor J was drafted 12th overall in the 1972 draft by the Milwaukee Bucks, but he played in the ABA until he joined the 76ers in 1976. In that year, the Doctor averaged 21.6 points and 8.5 rebounds per game.

While he put up some solid numbers for a rookie, the thing that made Erving such a special player was how freakish of an athlete he was for that era in time.

Julius Erving was the best dunker and probably the most athletic player in the mid 70's. When you think back to the 1970's and players who were the most exciting to watch, Dr. J has to come to mind. This list just wouldn't be complete without him on it.

18. David Robinson, San Antonio Spurs

Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

SAN ANTONIO - JUNE 6: David Robinson #50 of the San Antonio Spurs runs during Game two of the 2003 NBA Finals against the New Jersey Nets at SBC Center on June 6, 2003 in San Antonio, Texas. The Nets won 87-85. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges

This is another one of those guys, where if we were making a list of the best rookie seasons, he would be in the top ten, no questions asked. But this is a list about the most exciting rookies, and while "The Admiral" wasn't dunking between his legs or shattering backboards, he certainly was a joy to watch out on the basketball court.

Robinson was selected by the Spurs with the first pick in the 1987 NBA Draft, but he did not play his first NBA game until 1989 because he was required to fulfill his commitment to the Navy.

In his first season in the league, The Admiral had an outstanding rookie campaign, averaging 24.3 points, 12 rebounds and 3.9 blocks per game.

Perhaps the most impressive stat here is that the Spurs went from 21 to 56 wins when Robinson arrived, which is the single greatest turnaround in NBA history.

17. Derrick Rose, Chicago Bulls

When a guy is able to create as many "ohhhs" and "ahhhs" as Derrick Rose is, then he has to be one of the top players on this list.

Rose was selected first overall by the Bulls in the 2008 Draft and he had the type of rookie season that let people know that this guy is going to be one heck of a basketball player in the NBA. Rose averaged 17 points and over six assists per game on his way to being named the Rookie of the Year.

While we have seen better passers in the NBA, Derrick Rose very well could be the quickest player and have the biggest burst to the basket of any player to ever play the game. When you talk about exciting, this is a guy who brings pure excitement to the game of basketball.

Check our this crossover drive he puts on Andre Miller during his rookie season.

16. Elgin Baylor, Minnenapolis Lakers

Back in the late 1960's, there really weren't too many players that could put on a show like Elgin Baylor could. The amazing thing is that he did it from the second he put on that Lakers NBA jersey.

In his rookie season, Baylor averaged 24.9 points and 15 rebounds per game while guiding the Lakers from last place to an appearance in the NBA Finals.

During his rookie season, Baylor ranked in the top 10 in points, rebounds and and assists, which just goes to show how exciting this guy was to watch back in the day.

15. Grant Hill, Detroit Pistons

Grant Hill was one of the most promising rookies to ever play the game of basketball. Unfortunately some injuries came into play midway through his career, but nonetheless, Hill is approaching his 20th NBA season, which is an incredible feat on it's own.

Now, if you look back to his 1994 rookie season with the Detroit Pistons, the word incredible takes on a whole new meaning.

Hill came into the league out of Duke and went on to average 20 points, 6.4 rebounds and five assists per game during his rookie campaign. Some people in Detroit would say that the guy was a walking triple-double.

Hill went on to win ROY honors that year and instantly became a fan favorite not only in Detroit but across the entire NBA. Just take a look at this dunk Hill has over Alonzo Mourning, and you will see why he cracks the top 15 of this list.

14. Pete Maravich, Atlanta Hawks

There weren't too many men to ever play the game of basketball that could excite a crowd with their moves like "Pistol" Pete Maravich could.

Maravich averaged 23.2 points and 4.4 assists per game in his rookie campaign. But what made this guy so exciting was his style of play.

To get an idea of how good he was, Maravich was cited by the Hall of Fame as being "perhaps the greatest creative offensive talent in history." In addition to that,  in an April 2010 interview, Hall of Fame player John Havlicek said "the best ball-handler of all time was [Pete] Maravich."

When you get those kind of props, there is no doubt that you are going to find a spot for yourself amongst the top of this list.

13. Vince Carter, Toronto Raptors

When you think of the word "excitment," the image of rim-rocking slam dunks probably come to mind. Well, I think it would be fair to say that there was no one in the NBA in the 1990's and early 2000's, that could dunk like Vince Carter.

Carter came into the league in 1998 and immediately built his reputation as the most exciting player to watch in basketball. He averaged 18.3 points per game, but at least 10 of those points came on free-flying dunks that made the crowd's jaw drop.

Carter soon developed the nickname "Air Canada" for his time with the Toronto Raptors.

In 2000, Carter put together what should still go down as the most impressive dunk contest performance in NBA history. Just take a look.

12. Dominique Wilkins, Atlanta Hawks

From one great dunker, to the next, Dominique Wilkins put on such a show with his dunking ability, that he was given the nickname "The Human Highlight Film."

Wilkins averaged 17.5 points and 5.8 rebounds in his rookie season with Atlanta, but it was the crowd pleasing slam dunks that this guy did in games that makes him come in at No. 12 on this list. There weren't too many players that could light up a stadium like 'Nique could.

Take a look at this video and chances are that you will get the idea of why Wilkins is so high up on this list. Talk about exciting.

11. Earl Monroe, Baltimore Bullets

Earl "The Pearl" Monroe was well known across the league for his flamboyant style of dribbling, passing and play-making ability. With that said, it is no surprise that Monroe cracks this list of the most exciting rookies ever to play.

Add in the fact that he averaged over 24 points per game in his rookie campaign and this guy was a lock for a top-15 spot on this list.

Monroe was known as being a playground legend, and when he brought that style of game with him to the NBA, he instantly turned into one of the most enjoyable players to watch in the league.

10. Allen Iverson, Philadelphia 76ers

"We talkin' bout practice."

Well, actually right now, we're talking about the most exciting rookies in NBA history, and this former 76ers guard has to be mentioned in that category.

Iverson was drafted first overall in the 1996 draft, and he went on to have a spectacular rookie campaign. AI averaged 23.5 points and 7.5 assists in his first season in the league. But what made this guy so exciting to watch is how dominant he was being that he was only 6'0" 165 pounds playing in a big-man league.

Iverson basically brought the killer crossover move back to basketball when he entered the league. Just take a look at this crossover he had against Michael Jordan during his rookie season. After this move, everyone and anyone wanted to watch Allen Iverson play.

9. Larry Bird, Boston Celtics

Rick Stewart/Getty Images

Undated: Forward Larry Bird of the Boston Celtics looks on. NOTE TO USER: It is expressly understood that the only rights Allsport are offering to license in this Photograph are one-time, non-exclusive editorial rights. No advertising or commercial use

Perhaps the greatest shooter to ever play the game of basketball, Larry Bird lit up the eyes of NBA spectators from the second he took the floor on an NBA court.

The year before Bird was drafted, the Celtics managed a 29-53 record. In his first season, the Celtics went 61-21. No coincidence.

Bird averaged 21.3 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game. He shot 41 percent from behind the 3-point line in his rookie year. Bird grabbed the attention of fans across the nation and made them realize that he was one of the most exciting players that basketball had ever seen. With his ability to knock down shots from seemingly anywhere on the court, Bird became an NBA icon.

Larry legend was an almost unanimous choice for ROY, receiving 63 of 68 votes, which isn't too bad considering Magic Johnson was also a rookie that season.

8. Lew Alcindor, Milwaukee Bucks

Stephen Dunn/Getty Images

LOS ANGELES - 1987: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar #33 of the Los Angeles Lakers shoots a hook shot during an NBA game at the Great Western Forum in Los Angeles, California in 1987. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)

Back in the day before Kareem was Kareem, Lew Alcindor, one of the most dominant rookies in the history of the NBA.

This big man averaged 28.8 points and 14.5 rebounds per game in his first season in the league. As if those numbers aren't eye-popping enough, he also helped the Bucks go from 27-55 a year before, to a 56-26 record during his rookie year.

But, what made Lew Alcindor so exciting to watch is how he truly dominated other big men. His patented skyhook was one of the most beautiful moves to watch in NBA history. And the fact that he did it to perfection is why he makes the top-10 list right here.

7. Magic Johnson, Los Angeles Lakers

Now, if you are given the nickname "Magic," there really isn't any possible way that you couldn't appear on the list of most exciting rookies of all time. Especially when you put up 18 points, 7.7 rebounds and 7.3 assists per game, and are named the NBA Finals MVP in your rookie year.

I know Larry Bird won ROY honors this same year, but Larry Bird didn't score 42 points and grab 15 rebounds in Game 6 of the NBA Finals while playing center, even though his natural position was point guard.

Magic could do it all and he will always be remembered as one of the most exciting players to ever play in the NBA. How else would you get a nickname like "Magic?"

6. Oscar Robertson, Cincinnati Royals

When you are .3 assists away from averaging a triple-double in your rookie season, then you have to be near the top of this list.

"The Big O" famously averaged 30.5 points, 10.1 rebounds and 9.7 assists per game during his rookie campaign with the Cincinnati Royals. Robertson was the ROY and the All Star Game MVP in the same season.

"The Big O" wowed fans across the country with his play on the court and instantly became a fan favorite from his rookie season and into the future.

5. Shaquille O'Neal, Orlando Magic

When Shaq came into the NBA in 1992, he instantly became the most physically dominant player the league had ever seen.

With a rare combination of power and athleticism, O'Neal put up 23.4 points, 13.9 rebounds and 3.5 blocks per game as a 20-year rookie in the NBA. He brought crowds to life with his rim rattling dunks and his powerful inside ability. Wherever the Orlando Magic were playing, fans packed the house to see the Diesel play.

In fact, Shaq had so much fan appeal in his rookie season, that he became the first rookie to be voted to start the All-Star Game since Michael Jordan in 1985. Shaq also helped the Magic improve from their 1991 record of 21-61 to 41-41 in his rookie season.

Just take a look here at what Shaq did early on in his career. All you could do was stare and just simply say "wow."

4. Blake Griffin, Los Angeles Clippers

This was probably the most difficult guy to place on this list simply becuase he has brought such an incredible amount of excitement to the NBA this season, but his rookie year isn't even complete yet.

With the Michael Jordan era now over, Kobe Bryant getting older and slower by the day, and LeBron James just doing what he does on a nightly basis, the NBA was noticeably losing some appeal as of late. The same guys are shining, the same teams are winning, but then enters Blake Griffin, and he has single handily rejuvenated the league and provided some much needed excitement.

Griffin was a really good college player, which is why the Clippers selected him first overall in the 2009 NBA Draft. But after missing his entire rookie season due to injury, not many knew what to expect of the young kid this season.

All he has done is averaged 22.8 points and 12.5 rebounds per game in his rookie season. Not to mention that he appears on SportsCenter's Top-10 plays in what seems like a daily basis.

Blake Griffin is the best dunker and arguably, the most exciting player that the NBA has ever seen. He is a joy to watch night in and night out. For anyone that hasn't seen this guy play, please turn on ESPN, he will be bound to be in at least one highlight. That's a guarantee.

3. Wilt Chamberlain, Philadelphia Warriors

If we are talking the greatest rookies in NBA history, then Wilt Chamberlain has to appear at No. 1 on that list. He comes in here at No. 3 in most exciting rookies, because back in the day, this guy could flat out do some things that were out of this world.

Chamberlain is one of two players to have ever won Rookie of the Year and MVP in the same season. His 27 rebounds a game is not only the most ever for a rookie, but it's the second-best average of all time. Oh and by the way, he also averaged a jaw-dropping 37.6 points per game in his rookie year.

Wilt Chamberlain could dunk, he could rebound, he could flat out score and that made him one of the most exciting rookies to ever step foot on an NBA court.

2. LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers

Fans knew that LeBron James was going to be something special when he came into the league in 2003. He was, hands down, the most hyped-up prospect to ever enter the NBA. But when this guy took the court in his rookie season, he brought an excitement to the game that was unparalleled to any player in the modern era.

He averaged 20.9 points, 5.9 assists and 5.5 rebounds on his way to being named the 2004 Rookie of the Year. At the time, James was just the third rookie in NBA history to average 20-5-5.

But what made LeBron such a pure joy to watch was simply how physically dominant he was out on the basketball court. There had never been a player that could dominant a game single handily like LeBron could. He is now considered by many to be the best player in the game today, and it all started with that standout rookie season in Cleveland.

Kevin Harlan said it best, LeBron James plays like he simply "has no regard for human life."

1. Michael Jordan, Chicago Bulls

It's only fitting that the greatest player to ever play the game of basketball, was also the most exciting rookie in NBA history.

When Michael Jordan entered the NBA in 1984, he showed fans something that they simply hadn't ever seen in a basketball player before. M.J. had the most pure athleticism and provided the most excitement of any player to ever put on an NBA jersey.

M.J. averaged 28.2 points, 6.5 rebounds and 6 assists per game in his rookie season. At the time, he was  one of only two rookies to average more than 25, 5 and 5 per game. But, it was the way that he went about it that made him such a joy to watch.

Larry Bird said it best when he was asked about Michael Jordan as a rookie.

"I've never seen one player turn a team around like that," Bird said. "Pretty soon this place [Chicago Stadium] will be packed every night ... They'll pay just to watch Jordan."

Boy, was he ever right.