Is this the year the new face of the NBA is introduced? Some think this year’s NBA Rookie of the Year race will decide the future of the league.
But who will win?
There are a few factors affecting the candidates and their path to greatness. Check out these picks for the NBA Rookie of the Year race before betting any money.
Eric Paschall
The young rookie from Villanova has achieved success at every level. Winning a national championship two years ago, the forward was picked by the Golden State Warriors in the second round.
It’s not unheard of for a second-round pick to win Rookie of the Year (ROY), but the chances are long.
His advantage has been playing for a team that’s rebuilding. If Eric played for a better team, he’d probably be sitting out more games.
The experience he’s gaining will take him far in this league even if he doesn’t win the ROY award this year.
Tyler Herro
The young rookie out of Kentucky has more than a jump shot – he has swagger. His attitude on the court and defiance in the face of veterans has endeared him to many.
Jimmy Butler is his biggest fan and the duo has the Miami Heat as a dark horse contender for the title this season.
Herro’s odds sit at +4000 to win the ROY award. Part of this is due to the success of other rookies, but also because he’s dropped a few games where he struggled mightily.
Watch to see if he has a stretch of games where he scores 30 or 40 points. He’s certainly capable.
Ja Morant
Most fans and media believe it’s a two-person race between Ja Morant and Zion Williamson.
Morant is an explosive guard who captured the nation’s attention last year during the NCAA tournament. He’s now torching opponents for the Memphis Grizzlies.
With strong scoring and playmaking abilities, Ja Morant currently has the highest odds of winning with -350, but that’s not the only thing he has going for him.
He’s started every game he has played and is leading his team to a playoff spot. Barring an absolute collapse, the Grizzlies are primed to face LeBron in the first round.
If you’re a numbers person, picking Ja Morant is a smart move.
Zion Williamson
Don’t look now, but Zion Williamson is taking the league by storm.
One of the most hyped rookies since LeBron James, the former Duke forward is making frequent highlights in the league.
Zion is currently leading all rookies in points and rebounds per game. Why isn’t he the clear cut favorite?
Zion has only played in a handful of games so far.
The New Orleans Pelicans rookie missed most of the season recovering from a knee injury. Many fans don’t believe he should be in the discussion for NBA Rookie of Year since he’s missed so much time.
You can’t deny his abilities, and there’s a good chance he will win the ROY award despite his limited games.
How Close is the NBA Rookie of the Year Race?
Currently, Ja Morant has a slight edge on Zion Williamson, but these numbers change every game.
The NBA Rooke of the Year race will most likely come down to the last game of the season. It’s an exciting race to watch, so get in on the action.
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