The Top 3 Rookie of the Year Candidates in the NBA: Who Will Take the Crown?

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The NBA season is in full swing, and the race for Rookie of the Year has been heating up! With some incredible talent emerging from this year’s rookie class, it's harder than ever to pick just one standout player. As we near the end of the season, three rookies have separated themselves from the pack. But who truly deserves to win the coveted title of Rookie of the Year? Let’s break down the top three contenders and what makes them shine—and why they might not finish the season with the award.

This discussion comes from Episode 18 of my podcast, Harrison Talks Pod, where I dive deeper into these top rookie candidates. Make sure to check out the full episode for more in-depth analysis and insights on all things NBA!
Listen to Episode 18 here



1. Stephon Castle: The Rising Star for the Spurs

Recent Takeaways:
Steph Castle has taken the NBA by storm, and as of this week, he’s leading the Rookie of the Year race. His scoring has increased dramatically in the last 10 games, up to 17.4 points per game from 10.5, showing a real jump in confidence and efficiency. He’s also upped his shooting from the field (49.6%) and free-throw line (80.2%).

Why He Could Win Rookie of the Year:
Castle has been showing growth in all areas—scoring, efficiency, and basketball IQ. He’s played an integral role for the San Antonio Spurs, and if he keeps improving, he could be a top player on the team for years to come. He’s been consistently great regardless of whether he's starting or coming off the bench, which speaks volumes about his versatility. A key reason Castle could win is his combination of offensive skill and ability to perform in high-pressure games. If he continues this form, he could run away with the award.

Why He Might Not Win:
The Spurs have a lot of talent on their roster, from Victor Wembanyama to veteran Chris Paul, and that means Castle isn’t the only player getting the spotlight. With so many strong players on the team, his consistency might be harder to maintain over a full season, especially after the All-Star break when teams start to make their final playoff pushes. This could affect his ability to stand out in a crowded field of rookie talent.

2. Zach Edey: A Force in the Paint

Recent Takeaways:
Edey has quietly turned into a dominant player for the Memphis Grizzlies. Over his last 10 games, he’s averaged 15.1 points per game, an impressive jump from his season average of 10.9. He’s shooting an incredible 58% from the field, showing off his improved efficiency. And it’s not just his offense—Edey has also been a defensive force, pulling down 9.4 rebounds per game and proving that his presence in the paint is undeniable.

Why He Could Win Rookie of the Year:
Edey’s ability to dominate both ends of the floor gives him a unique edge over the competition. His size and rebounding ability make him a matchup nightmare, and if the Grizzlies make a deep playoff run, his defense could be a key factor in their success. Plus, his 70% free-throw shooting shows that he’s becoming a complete player. If he continues this high-level play, he could challenge for Rookie of the Year honors.

Why He Might Not Win:
The biggest concern with Edey’s candidacy is his competition for minutes. The Grizzlies have a loaded roster, and there’s a chance that Edey won’t get the consistent playing time that some other rookies will, especially in the second half of the season when playoff implications intensify. If he doesn't get enough court time or struggles with foul trouble, it could hurt his chances to secure the Rookie of the Year award.

3. Jaylen Wells: The Efficient Playmaker

Recent Takeaways:
Wells has been steadily improving throughout the season, and his 12.3 points per game over the last 10 games is a clear sign of his growth. He’s shooting 47.8% from the field and 39% from three-point range, making him one of the more well-rounded players in this rookie class. He’s also been solid on defense and has had a few standout performances, including a 30-point game against the Grizzlies.

Why He Could Win Rookie of the Year:
Wells has shown incredible efficiency in his play, both offensively and defensively. His ability to score and play at a high level without forcing the issue is a key factor that could help him stand out in a crowded race. As the Grizzlies make their push for the playoffs, Wills’ ability to deliver in big moments will make him a serious contender for the Rookie of the Year award.

Why He Might Not Win:
The biggest hurdle for Wells could be the crowded rotation in Memphis. With so many veterans and stars on the team, Wills may find himself competing for playing time, especially during the final stretch of the season. This could hinder his ability to maintain the level of play necessary to take home the award, especially with his peers all making strong cases.

The Final Verdict: Who Will Take the Title?

At this stage of the season, it’s clear that Castle, Edey, and Wells are all top contenders for the Rookie of the Year award. Each player brings something unique to the table—Castle’s scoring and growth, Edey’s dominance in the paint, and Wills’ efficiency and all-around play.

While there are reasons why each of them could win the title, it’ll all come down to how they perform in the final stretch of the season. The competition is fierce, but one thing is certain: we’re witnessing the emergence of a new generation of NBA stars, and whichever rookie takes home the award will be a player to watch for years to come.

For more in-depth analysis of the top Rookie of the Year candidates and the latest NBA news, be sure to check out Episode 18 of Harrison Talks Pod.

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